Visakhapatnam community fridges: Leave surplus food, take what you need from August 15

Visakhapatnam: In a new community-driven initiative to ensure that no one in the city goes to bed hungry, the Visakhapatnam city police are setting up 'community fridges' at five locations on a pilot basis. The fridges will be formally launched on August 15, Independence Day.

Installed at Asilmetta, Jagadamba Junction, Maddilapalem, Gopalapatnam and Gajuwaka, these fridges allow members of the public to donate surplus fresh food. People in need can take the food from the fridges free of cost. The initiative aims to encourage community participation in addressing hunger and ensure that surplus food reaches those who need it most.

Commissioner of Police Shanka Brata Bagchi told The Hindu that the project is part of the police force's broader focus on community-oriented policing and services for vulnerable sections. "People can place fresh food in the community fridges, while those in need can take it," he said.

Mr. Bagchi stressed that only fresh and safe-to-consume food should be donated to prevent any health risks to beneficiaries. To ensure proper functioning, CCTV cameras are being installed at all locations and police personnel will be deployed to oversee the facilities. The fridges will be accessible around the clock, making it convenient for donors and recipients alike.

The pilot programme will be assessed based on public response before being extended to more locations across the city. The police have chosen these five sites for their visibility and high footfall, which will help maximise community engagement.

This initiative follows 'Operation Jyothirgamayee', launched earlier by the city police to identify and assist destitute persons. Under that operation, thousands of vulnerable people were traced and assisted—some were sheltered at GVMC night shelters, while others were reunited with their families or admitted to hospitals for treatment. The operation also helped several people find employment, restoring their dignity and providing them with an opportunity to lead meaningful lives.

"Seeing people begging or sleeping on the streets was heart-wrenching. No one should have to beg to survive. Every human being deserves to live with dignity," Mr. Bagchi said, explaining the motivation behind the police's community welfare efforts.

The community fridge concept has been implemented in various cities across India and abroad, relying on the generosity of citizens to reduce food wastage and combat hunger. The Visakhapatnam police appeal to the public to participate actively by donating surplus fresh food and ensuring the initiative's success. The launch on Independence Day symbolises a collective commitment to a hunger-free city.