In the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, where raging rivers often cut off access to remote villages, one health worker’s extraordinary act of courage has captured the nation’s attention. Kamla Devi, a 40-year-old nurse, risked her life to ensure that a newborn child received vital immunisation on time.
A viral video shows Kamla Devi leaping across slippery boulders with a swollen river roaring beneath her in Mandi district. With her shoes clutched in one hand and her backpack strapped tightly across her shoulders, she moved from one rock to another, balancing herself against the force of nature. The mission was clear: reach the infant before the crucial immunisation deadline was missed.
“I was worried about the baby. The mother couldn’t come for immunisation because of the weather. So, I thought I should reach them,” Devi told The Indian Express.
Posted at the Primary Health Centre in Sudhar (Padhar tehsil), Kamla Devi also holds additional charge of the Swar Health Sub-Centre, which covers the infant’s home. This meant the child’s vaccination was her direct responsibility. With roads blocked by floods and landslides, she had only one choice—to cross the river herself.
Her courage turned into a leap of faith as she traversed the gushing water. “The infant’s immunisation schedule demanded my immediate attention. There was nothing else on my mind,” she recalled.
Since the video went viral, Kamla Devi has been flooded with calls of praise and admiration. Social media users hailed her as a real-life hero, calling her dedication “inspirational” and “a shining example of true service.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Deepali Sharma acknowledged her act as a “grand gesture” but cautioned other health workers against taking similar risks. “It was a courageous step on her part. But we don’t want our health workers to endanger themselves. If there is an inaccessibility factor, we will make arrangements for them,” Sharma said.
Such people truly need appreciation! 🙌 From Chauharghati Mandi HP, Kamla Devi, a health worker, crossed a flooded stream by jumping to reach Hurang village and vaccinate babies. With roads blocked due to floods and landslides, she carried duty on her shoulders. pic.twitter.com/FbysmHKqOB
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) August 22, 2025
Public Reaction to Viral Video
The incident has ignited a debate beyond Kamla Devi’s bravery. While many praised her determination, others questioned why such risks are even necessary in the first place.
One user wrote: “Such people truly need appreciation! With roads blocked due to floods and landslides, she carried duty on her shoulders.” Another pointed out: “Her efforts are commendable. But why have the authorities not provided any alternative solutions? Why no emergency infrastructure for such cases?”
Kamla Devi’s determination goes beyond a single act—it represents the unsung sacrifices of frontline health workers in India’s remote regions. They are often forced to battle extreme weather, inaccessible terrains, and lack of infrastructure just to ensure that the most vulnerable—especially newborns—receive basic healthcare.
As the video continues to inspire millions, Kamla Devi remains humble. “I don’t know who shot the video. I only did what I had to. It was my duty,” she said.
Her bravery is now etched as a symbol of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication—an inspiring reminder of the lengths to which healthcare workers go to protect lives, no matter the odds.
