A tragic incident under the Zirakpur flyover in Mohali has once again highlighted the perilous conditions faced by homeless individuals during the winter season. A man was found dead late on Saturday, with authorities suspecting the severe cold as the primary cause. This event has ignited significant local anger over the perceived failure of winter protection measures for the destitute.
Discovery and Immediate Aftermath
Local residents made the grim discovery around 9 pm on Saturday when they noticed the man lying motionless beneath the flyover. They reported that his body was completely stiff, a clear sign of prolonged exposure to the biting cold. The police were immediately alerted to the scene.
The deceased was identified as Sheeshpal, a 42-year-old native of Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh. He worked at the vegetable market in Preet Colony and had been using the space under the flyover as his shelter. His brother, Satish Kumar, later arrived to formally identify the body.
A Disturbing Pattern of Neglect
This death is not an isolated event. Shockingly, it marks the second such fatality at the exact same location within a span of just 10 days. On December 27, another homeless man lost his life under suspicious circumstances at the Zirakpur flyover. These consecutive tragedies starkly underscore the extreme vulnerability of the homeless population during the ongoing cold wave sweeping the region.
Local citizens have expressed deep frustration, alleging that despite repeated official claims about operational night shelters and winter protection plans, the ground reality remains dangerously grim. The lack of accessible and adequate shelter is seen as a direct contributor to these preventable deaths.
Official Response and Public Appeal
Following the procedure, the body was shifted to the Derabassi Civil Hospital for post-mortem. Legal proceedings were completed under BNS 194 before the remains were handed over to Sheeshpal's grieving family.
In the wake of this incident, authorities have issued an urgent appeal to the public. They are urging residents to be vigilant and to immediately alert officials about any homeless persons spotted in need of shelter, especially as the harsh cold conditions are expected to persist. The community's role in preventing further tragedies is now being emphasized.
