A tragic incident in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district has once again highlighted the severe gaps in rural healthcare and infrastructure. A heavily pregnant woman and her unborn baby lost their lives after she was forced to walk nearly six kilometres to seek medical help.
Long Walk Due to Lack of Facilities
The deceased, Asha Santosh Kiranga (24), belonged to Aldandi Tolo village in Etapalli taluka. She was in the ninth month of pregnancy. However, her village has no proper road access or nearby health centre. As a result, Asha and her husband decided to walk through a forest route to reach her sister’s house in Petha village for delivery.
During the journey, she suddenly developed labour pains. Soon after, she began to bleed heavily. Although her family reacted quickly, the delay proved fatal.
Emergency Rush to Hospital
Meanwhile, relatives arranged an ambulance and rushed Asha to the nearest hospital. By the time doctors examined her, the baby had already died in the womb due to severe blood loss. Doctors then tried to stabilise Asha and provided emergency treatment.
However, her condition continued to deteriorate. Eventually, doctors confirmed that complications related to high blood pressure and excessive bleeding caused her death.
Official Response and Probe Ordered
District Health Officer Dr. Pratap Shinde stated that the medical team made every possible effort to save her life. Nevertheless, her condition had turned critical before she reached the hospital. Following the incident, officials sought an explanation from the Etapalli taluka health officer. Moreover, authorities have ordered a detailed investigation to identify lapses.
Growing Anger Over Rural Healthcare
Meanwhile, the incident has triggered anger among locals and activists. Many believe timely medical care could have prevented both deaths. Therefore, they blame poor roads, lack of ambulances, and inadequate maternal health services.
Overall, the tragedy underscores the urgent need to strengthen healthcare delivery in remote tribal regions. Experts stress that improved road connectivity, regular prenatal care, and emergency services can prevent such avoidable deaths. Locals are now demanding immediate government action to ensure safer motherhood in rural Maharashtra.
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