In Kaimur hills, childbirth begins with displacement | Patna News

In the remote Adhaura block of Kaimur district, Bihar, a challenging reality forces expectant mothers to undertake arduous journeys in search of safe childbirth. The lack of accessible roads and the difficult terrain mean that women in advanced stages of pregnancy are often compelled to leave their villages weeks before their due dates, seeking healthcare in the plains.

The Burden of Distance

Reaching the nearest primary health centre (PHC) in Adhaura block headquarters requires navigating a steep, 6 to 9 km stretch of hilly terrain. This journey poses significant risks for pregnant women, particularly as their due dates approach. Many families make the difficult decision to relocate, either renting accommodation or staying with relatives in more accessible areas.

Did You Know? Despite 77 years of Independence, over 70,000 residents across 108 villages in Adhaura still lack access to basic infrastructure like roads, electricity, and drinking water.

Financial Strain and Displacement

This displacement isn’t without cost. Families often travel together, requiring at least one male and one female to accompany the expectant mother throughout the period leading up to and following delivery. This prolonged absence from their homes and livelihoods increases the financial burden on already vulnerable households. Savitri Devi of Bhadawan Kala village, for example, has been living in a rented room in Bhabua for the past 20 days due to the impossibility of traversing the 6 km hilly path to a hospital.

Challenges for Healthcare Providers

The difficulties extend to healthcare provision as well. Records from last year indicate that only about 50% of registered pregnant women were able to reach the Adhaura PHC for delivery. An ambulance driver attached to the local PHC admitted that responding to emergency calls from hilly villages is often avoided, as vehicles frequently become stuck on the uneven terrain, endangering both patients and staff. Dr. Chandan Singh, PHC in charge, noted that women with better connectivity often opt for facilities in Bhagwanpur or even across the border in Uttar Pradesh.

Expert Insight: The situation in Adhaura highlights the critical link between infrastructure and access to essential healthcare services. The forced displacement of pregnant women not only creates financial hardship for families but also disrupts continuity of care, potentially increasing risks for both mother and child.

A History of Unfulfilled Promises

The lack of infrastructure has been a long-standing issue. Villagers recall a former MLA, Ramchandra Yadav, promising to prioritize road construction in the area, even stating he would delay marriage until the roads were built. This promise, however, remained unfulfilled, leaving residents feeling disillusioned.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Possibilities

The state government has reportedly allocated funds for the repair and construction of ‘morum’ roads in the area, with the environment, forest and climate change department overseeing the work due to the area falling within a sanctuary. However, the monsoon season exacerbates the problem, washing away these ‘kachchi morum’ roads and further hindering access to healthcare. It is likely that continued investment in durable road infrastructure will be necessary to improve the situation. A possible next step could involve exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as specialized vehicles capable of navigating the terrain. Analysts expect that without sustained improvements, the cycle of displacement and hardship will continue for expectant mothers in Adhaura.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are women leaving their villages?

Women in advanced stages of pregnancy are leaving their villages due to the lack of proper motorable roads and difficult terrain, which makes accessing healthcare facilities too risky.

How far do women have to travel to reach the nearest health centre?

The nearest primary health centre is located 6 to 9 km away, but the journey involves navigating a steep and treacherous hilly stretch.

What is being done to address the issue?

The state government has allocated funds for road repair and construction, but the situation worsens during the monsoon season when roads are washed away.

Considering the challenges faced by expectant mothers in Adhaura, what role can community-based healthcare initiatives play in bridging the gap in access to care?