Army Doctor’s Heroic Act: Delivering a Baby on Jhansi Railway Station Footbridge

In an extraordinary display of presence of mind and medical expertise, Major Rohit Bachwala, a 31-year-old Indian Army doctor, turned a bustling railway station into a makeshift delivery room to safely deliver a baby girl on the footover bridge of Virangana Laxmibai Jhansi Railway Station. The incident, which took place on July 5, 2025, has captured the hearts of millions across India, with netizens lauding Major Rohit’s quick thinking and resourcefulness under pressure.

Background: A Call to Action Amid Chaos

On a busy Saturday afternoon, Major Rohit, stationed at Jhansi’s Military Hospital, was at the railway station awaiting his train to Hyderabad for a month-long leave to visit his family. Amid the hustle of passengers, he noticed a woman, later identified as Ashwarfalak Quershi, in acute distress on the station’s footover bridge. Traveling from Panvel to Barabanki on the Panvel-Gorakhpur Express (Train No. 15066) with her husband and child, Ashwarfalak had unexpectedly gone into labor. Her husband, Mohammad Zubair Quershi, had already raised an SOS through the Indian Railways’ Rail Madad app, prompting a swift response from the railway staff.

As the situation escalated, Major Rohit stepped in, leveraging his medical training and limited resources to assist in a high-stakes delivery in an unconventional setting. His actions, supported by railway staff, ensured the safe arrival of a healthy baby girl, earning widespread admiration.

Breaking Down the Incident: A Step-by-Step Account

1. The Emergency Unfolds

Ashwarfalak Quershi was being assisted by a female Train Ticket Examiner (TTE) in a wheelchair when her labor pains intensified. As she was moved out of the station’s lift onto the footover bridge, her cries of pain alerted Major Rohit. Recognizing the urgency, he immediately assessed the situation and prepared for an impromptu delivery.

2. Improvising with Minimal Resources

With no access to a sterile medical environment or standard surgical tools, Major Rohit relied on ingenuity. Using a pocket knife to cut the umbilical cord, a hair clip to clamp it, and a dhoti to maintain hygiene, he created a makeshift delivery setup. Female railway staff secured the area, ensuring privacy, while providing gloves and basic supplies to maintain sanitation.

3. Railway Staff’s Swift Support

The Jhansi division of North Central Railway played a crucial role in the operation. Upon receiving the distress call via the Rail Madad app, the Jhansi control room mobilized a medical team and ticket-checking staff. When the train arrived at the station, the team was ready to assist, ensuring seamless coordination with Major Rohit. Post-delivery, an ambulance was promptly arranged to transport the mother and newborn to a nearby hospital for further care.

4. Stable Outcome and Gratitude

Both Ashwarfalak and her newborn daughter were reported stable after the delivery. Mohammad Zubair Quershi expressed profound gratitude, noting the kindness of Major Rohit and the railway staff. Notably, Lili Kushwaha, the chief ticketing examiner, went beyond her duties, visiting the family at the hospital later that evening with food and clothes for the newborn.

Why This Matters: A Testament to Duty and Humanity

Major Rohit’s actions highlight the unwavering commitment of India’s armed forces, who serve not only on the battlefield but also in moments of civilian crisis. His ability to adapt in a resource-scarce environment underscores the importance of medical training and quick decision-making in emergencies. The incident also showcases the efficiency of Indian Railways’ emergency response systems, such as the Rail Madad app, which facilitated rapid coordination.

The event has sparked conversations about improving medical facilities at public transport hubs. A social media user suggested, “The government could consider policies to screen expectant mothers at public hospitals to predict delivery dates, helping avoid such high-risk situations.” This incident may prompt railway authorities to explore dedicated medical units at major stations to handle similar emergencies.

Public Response: An Outpouring of Praise

The story has resonated deeply online, with social media platforms buzzing with praise for Major Rohit’s heroism. Comments on X reflect national pride and admiration:

• “A soldier is always on duty. Jai Hind!” wrote one user.
• “Incredible presence of mind. Hats off to Major Rohit for this lifesaving act,” said another.
• “This is what true service looks like. Other departments should take inspiration,” a third user noted.

A Personal Touch: Major Rohit’s Roots

Hailing from Hyderabad, Major Rohit is the second member of his family to serve in the defense forces. His father, Junior Warrant Officer B.R. Vinod (Retd.), is a former skydiving instructor with the Indian Air Force. Major Rohit’s actions reflect a legacy of service and courage, making him a role model for aspiring medical professionals and soldiers alike.

Looking Ahead

This heartwarming incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the extraordinary efforts of individuals who rise to the occasion. As Major Rohit continues his leave in Hyderabad, his story will inspire countless others, reinforcing the values of compassion, duty, and resilience.