Woman in India gives birth on boat due to flooding on river island

In India’s Morigaon district, a mother named Jahanara Khatoon, aged 25, gave birth to a baby girl on a boat journey to a healthcare center amid heavy rainfall. She and her husband Kamaluddin had to leave their flooded home on Phuliamari Char island and seek refuge on a nearby island known as Chars due to the rising waters of the Brahmaputra River. The region has been experiencing increased rainfall attributed to climate change, making the river even more hazardous for residents living on its islands.

Despite initially wanting a boy, Kamaluddin expressed his happiness and contentment upon the birth of his daughter. The couple, who work as farmers on their island in Assam state, faced challenges reaching the healthcare center due to the flooding. Fortunately, a medical team was visiting flood-affected areas to assist pregnant women, and they convinced Khatoon to accompany them to the medical facility across the river.

During the boat journey, with the assistance of the medical team, Khatoon gave birth to her daughter under a blue tarp sheltering them from the rain. The newborn was quickly welcomed with joy and named Karima, which means “Giving.” Diluwara Begum, an auxiliary nurse and midwife, helped deliver the baby on the boat, describing it as a unique and gratifying experience.

The family’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by residents in flood-prone regions like Assam, which is considered highly vulnerable to climate change. Despite the difficulties, the arrival of baby Karima brings a sense of happiness and hope to her family amidst the adversity they are enduring.