Tragedy in Sohdra: The Human Cost of Flooding
This past Sunday, the village of Sohdra in Gujranwala faced a heartbreaking tragedy. Three newborns died when their mother couldn’t reach a hospital due to severe flooding that closed off vital roads. This isn’t just another story of nature’s wrath; it’s a reminder of how crucial timely medical care can be—especially in times of crisis.
The mother, expecting triplets, suddenly went into labor. With floodwaters isolating her from medical support, she delivered her first baby at home. However, complications soon emerged. Desperate to save her and her children, the family arranged for a boat to take her to the hospital. Tragically, while trying to transfer her from car to boat, she gave birth to two more babies. Without timely medical assistance, all three newborns—two girls and a boy—lost their lives. The mother’s grief echoed in her words: “Roads opened for everyone else, but not for us.”
This incident highlights a recurring issue in the country. Sadly, it’s not the first time expectant mothers have faced dire circumstances due to road closures—whether from floods, governmental VIP movements, or other reasons. Just last year, a woman lost her newborn while en route to a hospital in Dir Upper District, barely surviving the ordeal herself. A similar story emerged in August 2021, when a woman gave birth to a baby girl inside an ambulance struggling to reach a hospital near the Hazara Motorway’s Shah Maqsood Interchange.
These heartbreaking incidents shine a light on the importance of reliable emergency services, especially in vulnerable areas prone to flooding. Community awareness and improved infrastructure are vital for ensuring that mothers get the care they desperately need during emergencies. It’s a tragic reminder that access to healthcare can be a matter of life and death.
If you want to stay informed about healthcare solutions or discuss ways to support communities in need, connect with Pro21st. We’re here to be part of meaningful conversations about health and wellbeing.
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