Tragic Ordeal of Tribal Couple Highlights Healthcare Struggles in Andhra Pradesh

Nara Lokesh, the National General Secretary of TEDP, expressed deep concern over the heart-wrenching incident involving Madala Gangulu from Chittempadu village in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh. The incident has shed light on the dire healthcare situation and the hardships faced by the tribal communities in the state.

Madala Gangulu, a resident of the village, was accompanied by his ailing wife and six-month-old son when tragedy struck. On the 5th of this month, their son fell seriously ill, prompting them to rush to the Sringavarapukota Regional Hospital in Doli. Complicating matters further, Gangamma, his wife, was already suffering from kidney-related problems. Both were subsequently referred to Vizianagaram Sarvajana Hospital and later to Visakhapatnam KGH. Unfortunately, their son passed away on the 6th while undergoing treatment.

Tragedy struck again when Gangamma (23) fell critically ill and was admitted to a private hospital near Bhimili in Visakhapatnam district. She tragically succumbed to her illness on Tuesday afternoon.

What makes this heart-wrenching story even more distressing is the lack of proper transportation. Gangulu had to transport his wife's lifeless body using an auto and later a two-wheeler provided by a friend, ultimately resorting to carrying her on a dolly for seven kilometers to reach Boddawara railway station. The incident underscores the critical need for improved medical facilities and transportation options for tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh.