Debates galore on capital building notwithstanding, the trading and commercial hub of the State has just one night shelter.
As a result, large number of homeless daily wage labourers are forced to sleep on pavements, railway and bus stations, which makes them vulnerable to attacks from anti-social elements.
With an influx of migrant labourers from other districts expected shortly in view of the construction of the capital, the town is virtually in need of more night shelters. And, some of them are at the mercy of lodge managements that charge Rs. 50 a day without providing basic facilities.
According to local NGOs, the focus of the authorities should now be on providing shelter to daily wage labourers.
“We have estimated that more than 200 daily wage labourers are without shelter, and the number is expected to go up. The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) says it will open two more night shelters. Each centre should have space to accommodate 40 to 50 people,” said Roshan Kumar, secretary of Socio Educational Economic Development Society (SEEDS), an NGO.
The lone night shelter on the first lane of Arundelpet accommodates 138 members. The GMC opened the night shelter in June 2013 and handed over its maintenance to SEEDS. Two persons representing the NGO man the night shelter.
The GMC provides beds and cupboards to the inmates with the assistance of NGOs. It is also considering providing food.
The Supreme Court has time and again reminded State governments of the need to protect the lives of vulnerable people.
Large number of homeless daily wage labourers forced to sleep on pavements, railway and bus stations
