BBMP provides shelter for destitutes

BANGALORE: As per the directions of the Supreme Court on a petition filed by the People’s Union for Civil Liberties, the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) will provide shelter for those living at railway stations, bus stations and market areas without shelters.According to a study conducted by the BBMP, around 2,858 destitute including women and children, live without shelters in the city’s eight zones.Currently, the BBMP has provided shelter at Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Community hall in Jambu Savari Dinne, Vasantha Vallabha temple community hall in Vasanthpura and two community halls in Bommanahalli zones. Provisions are made for for 60 people with family at Ambedkar community hall, and 20 people (single) at Vasanthapura.Anneyamma, 35, one of the destitute, who slept on a footpath near Konanakunte, was excited to receive a kit and shelter facilities from the BBMP. “It was extremely difficult to sleep on the footpaths, especially during monsoon,” she said.While Sanjay, a rag picker, said, “Earlier I used to live in tents, which was very unsafe for my family and me. Now I can sleep peacefully with them.”Mayor Sharadamma inaugurated the drive on Friday and distributed kits. Each kit contained- bed, mat, bed spread, bed sheet, steel plate,  and toiletries like toothpaste, soap, bucket and mug. Speaking to reporters, she said Palike is providing food at Bommanahalli zone and will extend the facilities.What do shelter less people get■ Soft bed, mat, bed spread, bed sheet, steel plate, tumbler and also materials like toothpaste, tooth brush, soap, bucket and mug■ A hall with common toilet and bathroom facility■ Frequent health check up and treatment■ Food facility