In a tragic incident exposing the poor state of healthcare in remote tribal areas, a nine-month pregnant woman and her newborn died after she was forced to walk nearly six kilometres in search of medical help.
The incident took place in the early hours of January 2 in Etapalli tehsil of Gadchiroli district. The woman, identified as Asha Santosh Kiranga (24) from Alandi Tola village, began experiencing labour pains late at night. With no nearby medical facility available, she set out on foot with her husband towards her sister’s village, hoping to find assistance.
The couple walked several kilometres through forested terrain before help could be arranged. Asha was eventually taken by ambulance to Lloyds Kali Ammal Memorial Hospital in Hedri. Despite medical efforts, the newborn could not be saved. Soon after, Asha’s condition worsened rapidly, and she also passed away.
The bodies were first brought to Etapalli Rural Hospital but had to be shifted to Aheri for post-mortem examination due to the absence of a gynaecologist. The incident has triggered strong criticism from locals and health activists over delays and lack of specialised healthcare services in tribal regions.
District Health Officer Dr Pratap Shinde said ASHA workers had carried out regular home visits during the pregnancy and that the woman began walking only after labour pains started. He added that a detailed inquiry has been ordered to examine any lapses in the healthcare system.
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