Meet Chhattisgarh's frontline Covid warriors Ratna and Tandi

Unsung heroes in the fight against COVID-19, sanitation workers Ratna Nayak and Shakuntala Tandi, took up the task of cleanliness during the lockdown and contributed in making the city clean with their sheer determination and will power.

Raipur (Chhattisgarh):Amid the raging pandemic, sanitation workers Ratna Nayak and Shakuntala Tandi in Raipur were engaged in the task of cleanliness during the lockdown and contributed tirelessly to keep the city clean.

''Initially, There was a lot of fear and anxiety, but running a household was very important. If we do not earn, how will we survive? Our family did not want us to go to work but we worked keeping in mind all the safety guidelines. Social distancing was followed. We knew that if we do not undertake cleanliness then how the city will remain clean; and the infection will also spread and surge rapidly.'' said Ratna Nayak.

Nayak further said,'' We followed social distancing completely. Whenever we were out for work and thirsty; we approached and seek help from nearby families. When the shops were closed during the lockdown, people also gave us tea and food. Despite the pandemic, the general public treated the workers well and showed respect.''

Narrating her ordeal Shakuntla Tandi said we get a payment of Rs. 7,700 and we have to run the household within the ambit of this income. Inflation is skyrocketing and everything is expensive but somehow we have to manage to run our homes.

Both the Covid warriors leave home at 5 in the morning and start work at 6:30 am. They go around every ward, every street and clean everywhere.

Sanitation workers in India are often under grim situation and they are carrying out a huge responsibility; keeping the city clean by going out of bounds in line of duty, People also have the onus on their shoulders to keep the city safe and clean.