“The Resilience and Struggles of Street Children: Empowering Lives at Traffic Signals”

Delhi, the bustling capital city of India, is not only known for its rich history and vibrant culture but also for its staggering number of homeless individuals. According to civil society estimates, there are approximately 150,000 to 200,000 homeless people in Delhi, with a significant number being women. Among this vulnerable population, street children who live and work at traffic signals face unique challenges and struggles as they try to make a living.

These street children, often orphaned or abandoned, have found solace and opportunity amidst the chaos of city intersections. Regardless of the season, whether it’s scorching summers, chilly winters, or rainy monsoons, they rely on selling flags, articles,  to the traveling vehicle users for their livelihood. With no permanent residence or proper shelter, these children navigate the streets, surviving on the generosity of strangers and their own resilience.

Delhi’s homelessness crisis stems from various factors such as rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to education and healthcare, high levels of inequality, and a large informal economy. Many families, primarily migrant laborers, find themselves without permanent residences, forced to live in the open at traffic signals and make ends meet through informal means.

At the IIT flyover, where scattered belongings and dust create an uncertain terrain, families make their homes amidst the constant honking of cars. Children barely 12 years old, take care of their siblings while their parents work to earn a living. Education becomes a luxury for them, and their lives revolve around survival and fending off the dangers of the streets.

Children who hail from different states, showcase their acrobatic skills and perform daring stunts to earn a few rupees from generous passersby. But their struggle goes beyond finding generous people; it is also about surviving the chaotic traffic and avoiding accidents. The constant fear of injuries and accidents looms over these children as they try to navigate the roads and intersections.

While efforts have been made to provide support and shelter for the homeless, the existing infrastructure falls short of meeting the needs of the growing homeless population. Many families are hesitant to seek refuge in homeless shelters due to safety concerns and the dominance of intoxicated individuals. Lack of sufficient shelter homes exacerbates the challenges faced by these vulnerable individuals, especially during extreme weather conditions.

To truly address the issue of street children at traffic signals, a comprehensive approach is required. It is crucial to not only provide immediate support in terms of shelter and basic necessities but also empower these children with access to education, healthcare, and vocational training. By investing in their future, we can break the cycle of poverty and provide them with opportunities for a better life.

The lives of street children at traffic signals are a testament to their resilience and determination to survive against all odds. Their struggle for livelihood and the constant threats they face on the streets demand our attention and support. By recognizing their potential and taking collective action, we can create a society that empowers and uplifts these children, giving them a chance to break free from the cycle of poverty and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Let us come together to ensure that these young souls are not forgotten and that their dreams can become a reality.

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