ASHA Worker Saves Old Man, Receives Nationwide Appreciation
Cyclone Dana's impact in West Bengal and Odisha led to evacuations, but mobility-challenged individuals faced extra challenges. Amid the devastation, ASHA worker Sibani Mandal from Odisha’s Kendrapara district went viral for her selfless act of carrying an elderly woman to safety through a muddy path. Her bravery has sparked widespread praise and a discussion on the need for better support for ASHA workers. Sibani's resilience highlights the essential, heroic role of frontline health workers during crises.
ASHA Worker Praised for Saving Eldery Amid Cyclone Dana
There has been severe disruption caused in several West Bengal and Odisha areas by Cyclone Dana. Seemingly numerous residents were moved out and looking for safer places. The government could act swiftly in this regard by shifting people to a safer location before the storm had reached them. However, it was tougher for those with mobility issues-the older population. Amid all these destructions, one image went viral: that of an ASHA, or Accredited Social Health Activist, worker, Sibani Mandal. It gathered admiration from one corner to another.
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Ahead of #CycloneDana, Sibani Mandal, an Anganwadi worker from Khasamunda village in Rajnagar block, Kendrapara district, displays true heroism!
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) October 24, 2024
Going beyond her call of duty, she carried an elderly woman on her shoulders to safety.#Odisha | #CycloneUpdate | pic.twitter.com/haT1wusd75
Workers like Sibani playing in rural areas under tough conditions become the most vital element in supporting the communities. A social media user commented that those workers are paid very low wages and not availed of social security benefits or formal recognition by the government, so it becomes the most inspiring fact for Sibani's selfless act. "The strength and compassion required to carry someone through tough conditions in such a dangerous situation," read another user's comment on the importance of ASHA workers.
It has generated a healthy debate on the plight of ASHA workers and further need for improvement in it. Many users have voiced hope that these frontline health workers would receive better support and recognition. The spirit of service and resilience shown by Sibani reminds one of the crucial work done by the ASHA workers, especially during crisis. Her story is somehow a beacon of hope and courage in the destruction caused by Cyclone Dana.
