Problems Faced by Homeless Individuals During the COVID-19 Second Lockdown in India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Md Altaf Hussain

Abstract: Background: During the second COVID-19 lockdown, mobility restrictions severely affected homeless individuals, who lacked shelter, income, food security, and access to healthcare. Objective: To assess the challenges faced by homeless people during the strict lockdown and the effectiveness of support systems available to them. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 40 homeless individuals during the second lockdown. Convenience sampling was used. Results: Most participants were from the local area (29/40). Shelter was mainly provided by the community (25/40), while only 3 received government support. Nineteen participants had untreated health issues, and 27 were addicted to alcohol or tobacco. Food security was largely dependent on community volunteers (35/40). Only one individual reported satisfaction with government services. Conclusion: Homeless people experienced significant hardship, with minimal governmental aid and heavy reliance on community support. Stronger public health interventions are urgently required.

Keywords: Homelessness, COVID-19, lockdown, public health, India, quarantine, community support

How to Cite?: Md Altaf Hussain, "Problems Faced by Homeless Individuals During the COVID-19 Second Lockdown in India: A Cross-Sectional Study", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1393-1396, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251118150443, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251118150443