New Delhi, June 8 -- As temperatures continue to soar across the national capital, the Delhi Government has introduced innovative bamboo-based cooling zones that combine natural ventilation, mist cooling systems and sustainable design to provide respite to outdoor workers and vulnerable citizens.
According to the Chief Minister's Office, the initiative has been launched under the Delhi Government's Heat Action Plan to protect residents from heatwave conditions. The Outer North District Administration, in collaboration with SEEDS NGO, has established bamboo cooling zones in Bawana and Alipur, both of which are currently operational and serving the public.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the government plans to expand the initiative to other parts of the city. "Such eco-friendly cooling zones, which provide relief to the public, will also be set up in other areas of Delhi," she said.
Officials said three additional cooling zones are under development, including one being built in front of the Deputy Commissioner's office. The project is aimed at creating environmentally friendly,
sustainable and climate-resilient public facilities while protecting vulnerable sections of society from extreme heat.
The cooling zones have been designed primarily for construction workers, daily wage labourers, rickshaw pullers, drivers, street vendors and others who spend long hours outdoors. Constructed largely from bamboo, the structures have a minimal environmental footprint and rely on natural cooling techniques rather than energy-intensive systems.
The facilities feature vetiver grass screens and mist-based cooling systems that help lower surrounding temperatures. Special arrangements for natural ventilation, including
strategically designed exhaust vents and airflow channels, ensure continuous air circulation within the structures. Officials said the design minimises heat absorption while maximising comfort for visitors.
Apart from cooling facilities, the centres also provide chilled drinking water, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets, fire extinguishers and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material on heatwave awareness and prevention. Seating and resting arrangements have also been made for visitors.
Highlighting the response from the public, Chief Minister Gupta said, "The cooling zones have received an extremely positive response from the public. For workers, drivers and other hardworking citizens, they are emerging as dependable spaces where people can take temporary rest from the heat and fatigue of the day."
She added that the initiative represents more than just immediate heat relief. "The initiative not only provides immediate relief but also marks an important step towards developing innovation-driven solutions to address future climate challenges," the Chief Minister said, reaffirming the government's commitment to protecting vulnerable communities through climate-friendly measures.
Appealing to residents amid the ongoing heatwave, Gupta urged people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during afternoon hours and make full use of the cooling zones and other public relief facilities. "The safety, health and well-being of citizens remain the Delhi Government's highest priority," she said.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.