Delhi Government’s Eco-Friendly Bamboo Cooling Zones Provide Relief Amid Intense Heat

New cooling zones equipped with natural ventilation, vetiver screens, and mist cooling systems

Cooling zones are emerging as reliable relief centres for residents of the Capital: CM Rekha Gupta

New Delhi, June 2026 : To protect residents from rising temperatures and heatwave conditions in the Capital, the Delhi Government is taking several effective measures under its Heat Action Plan. As part of these efforts, the Outer North District Administration, in collaboration with SEEDS NGO, has established an innovative and eco-friendly bamboo cooling zone in Bawana, which is providing relief to people during the ongoing heatwave. Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta states that such eco-friendly cooling zones, which provide relief to the public, will also be set up in other areas of Delhi.

At present, two cooling zones are operational in Bawana and Alipur and are serving residents. In addition, three more cooling zones are being developed and work on them has already begun. One of these cooling zones is being established in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) Office. This initiative is part of the Delhi Government’s efforts to develop environmentally friendly, sustainable and climate-resilient public facilities. The objective of these cooling zones is to protect vulnerable and sensitive sections of society, particularly construction workers, daily wage labourers, rickshaw pullers, drivers, street vendors and other citizens who work outdoors, from the adverse effects of extreme heat.

These cooling zones have been constructed primarily using bamboo, ensuring minimal impact on the environment while providing a sustainable structure. They are equipped with vetiver grass screens and a mist-based cooling system that naturally reduces the surrounding temperature and creates a more comfortable environment for visitors. Special arrangements have also been made for natural ventilation. Strategically designed exhaust vents and air circulation routes ensure a continuous flow of air throughout the structure. The entire facility has been developed in a manner that minimises heat absorption while maximising cooling and comfort. Keeping the convenience and safety of citizens in mind, the cooling zones provide chilled drinking water, ORS packets, fire extinguishers, and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material related to heatwave prevention and awareness. Adequate seating and resting arrangements have also been made for visitors.

Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta said that 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 said that the initiative not only provides immediate relief but also marks an important step towards developing innovation-driven solutions to address future climate challenges. The Delhi Government remains fully committed to protecting vulnerable and sensitive sections of society and will continue to promote such innovative and climate-friendly measures in the future.

Referring to the severe heat conditions prevailing in Delhi, Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta appealed to all residents to drink sufficient water, stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during afternoon hours, and make full use of the cooling zones and other public relief facilities established under the Heat Action Plan. She said that the safety, health and well-being of citizens remain the Delhi Government’s highest priority, and that the government is making every possible effort to provide relief during the summer season.