Newborn girl rescued from borewell in Odisha, 'battling for life' at hospital 

The newborn girl after being rescued from a borewell in the Rengali area of Sambalpur has been battling for life at the SNCU of the Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla, amid reports that she has serious health complications arising out of her low weight and premature birth. 

Prepared for airlift

Sources said, her intestine is bleeding and the health authorities of the VIMSAR are mulling to airlift her to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Post Graduate Institute of Paediatrics (Sishubhawan) in Cuttack, if the need arises.

According to doctors at VIMSAR, the baby has multiple injuries all over her body and what makes them more concerned is the bleeding inside her intestine, though efforts are on to check it. “It will take at least three to four days to check the bleeding. The baby is premature and underweight. Her condition is critical as it was born within 34 weeks and weighs only 1.6 kg,” said the Medical Superintendent of VIMSAR, Lal Mohan Nayak.

Next 3 days crucial

The next three days are crucial for the infant even as VIMSAR authorities are in touch with the authorities of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Post Graduate Institute of Paediatrics (Sishu Bhawan) in Cuttack. 

On the other hand, the Sambalpur district administration is keeping a close watch on the condition of the infant. Additional Collector Ajambar Mohanty is in regular touch with the VIMSAR authorities. The district child protection officer has sent an official to the VIMSAR to keep track of her health condition. 

Additional Collector Ajambar Mohanty said, "If doctors want to refer the baby for better treatment outside, the administration is prepared to provide all possible help.” 

Also Read: Baby inside borewell not accident, but act of crime: Odisha Fire Services DG 

Mandakini Kar, chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) said, "We have sought a report from the chief district medical officer (CDMO) about the health condition of the infant. We will intimate the child welfare committee for her rehabilitation after recuperation.”   

Police investigation on 

Meanwhile, police have intensified the investigation to ascertain the identity of the baby and to trace the person/s who dumped her into the abandoned borewell. Police are visiting villages and hamlets looking for clues.