COVID Hero: After Mother Tests Positive, Karnataka Auto Driver Ferries Emergency Patients For Free
Writer: Devyani Madaik
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Karnataka, 2 Jun 2021 10:17 AM GMT
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Creatives : Devyani Madaik
A media enthusiast, Devyani believes in learning on the job and there is nothing off limits when it comes to work. Writing is her passion and she is always ready for a debate as well.
BV Prashanth Kumar started the service after his mother tested positive for the virus over a month ago. He has been offering free transport to people infected with the virus since April 30.
Despite the ongoing restrictions in Karnataka amid the surge in coronavirus cases, BV Prashanth Kumar makes sure the patients infected with the virus receive immediate medical assistance.
A native of Suntikoppa, Kumar has been offering free transport to residents infected with the virus since April 30. So far, he has ferried 55 COVID patients and intends to continue until the restrictions are relaxed.
Kumar started the service after having experienced the same in his family when his mother, Parvathy, tested positive over a month ago.
The 65-year-old's condition was in critical condition, and she was kept on a ventilator at Madikeri COVID Hospital. She returned home a few days later after successful treatment. It was during this time that Prashanth realised the helplessness of many COVID patients.
"At the beginning, my family feared for my life. But now, they are proud of my work," The New Indian Express quoted Prashanth as saying.
He recalled that the first patient he ferried was his neighbours. Prashanth came forward to help the family when ambulances fell short, and other drivers refused to take them to the hospital, which was nearly 15 km away.
To ensure safety while ferrying passengers, the Suntikoppa Hospital doctor Jeevan provided Prashanth with PPE kits. The auto driver also availed an identity card and a pass to drive his three-wheeler during the curfew hours, with the help of Suntikoppa panchayat member Sunil and PDO Venugopal. The panchayat members have come forward to help Prashanth in his initiative in financial terms.
Also Read: Over 9,000 Kids Orphaned, Abandoned, Lost Parent To COVID-19: Child Rights Commission