In a heroic act in eastern India’s Odisha, an ASHA worker (health activist) rescued an elderly villager by carrying her on her shoulders to safety amid the impending threat of Cyclone Dana.

The incident took place at Khasmunda village under Rajnagar block of Kendrapara district on October 24.

Visuals showed the woman traversing a muddy path with the elderly villager securely on her back, making her way to a cyclone shelter. As the wind picked up, the scene highlighted the courage of the woman against the elements, showcasing her determination to ensure the villager’s safety.

According to reports, they were heading towards the shelter just as Cyclone Dana approached, expected to make landfall in Odisha with severe weather conditions. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi praised ASHA worker Sibani Mandal for her bravery during the evacuation drive. The cyclone was predicted to strike near Angula in Bhitarkanika of Kendrapara district, bringing with it a tidal surge of up to 2 meters and wind speeds reaching 120 km/h, prompting urgent evacuation measures in the area.