A staff nurse in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district has become a symbol of bravery after a video showed her risking her life to ensure a two-month-old baby received a vital vaccination.The nurse, Kamla Devi (40), was filmed navigating a raging stream in Chauharghati under Sudhar Panchayat, where recent heavy rains had washed away roads and bridges, cutting off access to villages. Carrying her medical kit, Devi carefully leapt across slippery boulders while the powerful current surged beneath her. Despite the life-threatening conditions, she made it across, reached Hurang village, administered the vaccine to the infant, and continued her journey back to the health centre. “I was worried about the baby. The family could not come due to floods, so I thought I must go,” Devi later told reporters. The act, shared widely on social media, drew widespread admiration. One X user wrote: “Such people truly need appreciation! Health worker Kamla Devi carried duty on her shoulders despite floods and landslides.” Another praised her dedication, calling her a “true hero of rural healthcare.” Medical authorities, while lauding her courage, also raised concerns about the risks. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Deepali Sharma said, “Her commitment is commendable, but health workers should not be forced into such dangerous situations. The administration will look into safer alternatives.” The video has reignited debate on the state of rural infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. Netizens applauded Devi’s determination but also questioned why frontline workers must risk their lives due to inadequate emergency planning and road connectivity. For now, Kamla Devi’s grit and dedication have turned her into an unlikely hero, embodying the spirit of countless health workers who continue to serve in India’s remotest corners.
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