No Way Out: Differently-Abled Migrant Worker To Walk 1,200 Km From Mumbai To MP On Foot & Cane

One thing that the nationwide lockdown has left Indians to stare at is the stark reality of the conditions of migrant workers, who are among the worst affected by the lockdown. Unable to reach their homes, they often fail to find shelter and even food.

They have been walking hundreds of kilometres on foot to get home; this started long before states decided to start special trains for them (which are still not reportedly functioning in all states).

India Today

Among these unfortunate migrants is 30-year-old, Ajay Kumar Saket, who is differently-abled as his right leg is infected with polio, reports India Today.

He can only walk using a cane for support and the circumstances have forced him to take a 1,200-km-long journey from Mumbai to Madhya Pradesh¡­ on foot.

Saket, a native of Sehdol district of Madhya Pradesh ran a tiny stall in Navi Mumbai to earn livelihood. His meager sources of money have been exhausted since the first lockdown and he seems to have no other option but to return home.

Representative Image/Reuters

He was asked why didn't wait for the Shramik train being run by the government, to which India Today quoted him as saying, "I had registered for the Shramik train five days ago, I also got a medical certificate, but couldn't wait any longer as there was no food and I felt, I won't survive if I stayed here any longer."

When he met the reporter, Saket was 10 km into his journey along with few other people from his village.

Representative Image/PTI

They are relying on good samaritans to give them some food and water while they take the long, strenuous journey.

Most migrant workers walking to their homes, risking fatigue, have the same apprehension - they are out of money and ration, and if they keep waiting for government help they might starve to death.

It is heartbreaking to see their plight, as these are the very people we rely on to build our homes and cities, and keep them up and running.