Chennai begins homeless survey for first time in seven years
The Greater Chennai Corporation has started a survey to identify the homeless for the first time in seven years. The survey, conducted with the Madras School of Social Work, will run until March and involves 75 staff and students covering all 200 wards. The last official survey in 2018 found 11,000 homeless individuals, while a 2022 study reported 10,300. The current survey will gather detailed information to help rehabilitate the homeless in 49 night shelters and provide skill training and financial aid. The survey includes 30 questions to understand the reasons for homelessness. Discussions will focus on tailored solutions for vulnerable groups. Chennai currently has 53 shelters, falling short of the ideal 83 needed.