Odisha Auto Driver Leads Initiative to Provide Free Transport for Pregnant Women
The Auto Driver Who Inspired Dozens Others To Help Pregnant Women For Free
News 18
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In Berhampur, Odisha, Gagan Patra, a 42-year-old auto-rickshaw driver, offers free rides to pregnant women and emergency patients. His initiative, started in 2016 after a personal experience, has inspired around 30 other drivers to join, collectively transporting nearly 6,000 patients to hospitals.
- 01Gagan Patra started offering free rides in 2016 after a personal emergency.
- 02His initiative has inspired around 30 auto-rickshaw drivers to join.
- 03The group has transported nearly 6,000 patients to hospitals.
- 04They continued their services during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
- 05The initiative has fostered community awareness and empathy.
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Gagan Patra, a 42-year-old auto-rickshaw driver from Berhampur, Odisha, has been providing free transportation to pregnant women and patients in emergencies since 2016. His motivation stemmed from a personal crisis when he struggled to find transport for his son during a medical emergency. Inspired by the kindness of a truck driver who helped him, Gagan began offering rides to those in need. He put up a poster on his auto-rickshaw, announcing free rides for pregnant women from poor families and emergency cases. This initiative has since grown, with about 30 auto-rickshaw drivers now participating, collectively transporting nearly 6,000 patients. Their contact numbers are displayed on their vehicles and in public places, ensuring easy access for those needing help. Remarkably, the drivers maintained their services during the COVID-19 lockdowns by securing permission from local authorities. Gagan's efforts have not only provided critical support but also fostered a sense of community awareness and empathy, as passengers often vacate their seats for emergency cases.
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Gagan Patra's initiative has significantly improved access to emergency medical transport for pregnant women and patients in Berhampur, providing critical support during emergencies.
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