In a unique and citizen-friendly initiative, Municipal Corporation Rohtak has launched a solar eco-cooling cabin to provide relief from extreme summer heat. The project has been developed through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support and is aimed at creating a comfortable public space while promoting the use of clean and green energy.
The MC authorities claim it is the first-of-its-kind project in Haryana. The project was inaugurated by Mayor Ram Avtar Valmiki on Wednesday.
The cabin, setup near the new bus stand in the city, is designed to help people who spend long hours outdoors, including pedestrians, street vendors, commuters, senior citizens, women, children and daily wage workers.
It will provide a cool and comfortable place where people can rest during hot weather. It can also be used during the rainy season and winter months, said MC Commissioner Narendra Kumar.
“One of the biggest highlights of the project is that it is a climate-friendly initiative with zero carbon footprint. The cabin runs on solar energy and uses natural cooling methods, reducing dependence on conventional electricity and helping to protect the environment. It is built with an insulated PUF structure and is equipped with a 3 kW solar power system with battery backup, khus (vetiver) cooling panels, a water mist cooling system, air ventilation, ceiling and wall fans, LED lights and charging points for mobile phones and laptops,” he added.
The Commissioner added that a comfortable seating has been provided for 16 to 20 citizens in the cabin at a time. Depending on individual needs, visitors are expected to spend between 15 and 45 minutes in the facility.
“To ensure safety and proper monitoring, CCTV cameras will be installed at the site. MC staff will oversee routine operations and maintenance, including water refilling, inspections and upkeep of the cooling systems. A caretaker will also be deployed to manage daily functioning. The project has been developed at an estimated cost of Rs 7.5 lakh and is expected to benefit around 100 to 300 people every day,” he added.
Kumar pointed out that apart from providing comfort, the cabin would help reduce heat-related health problems such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stress. Since it uses solar power, the operating cost is low and maintenance requirements are minimal.
“This is a pilot project. Based on its performance and public response, similar cabins will be installed at other locations across the city,” the Commissioner said.
MC officials believe that this project would encourage the use of renewable energy and inspire similar public welfare initiatives in other cities. “The solar eco-cooling cabin is a step towards making Rohtak a greener, more sustainable, and citizen-friendly city,” said one of the officials.
