Iman

Iman, a 46-year-old fruit seller from Someshwadi, Pune, traveled to Talegaon during the lockdown. With minimal savings and substantial loans, Iman embarked on a grueling journey. Informed about the lockdown by neighbors, she received no official instructions. The entire journey was made on foot, resting intermittently.

Scarcity of food and water, coupled with long distances, resulted in significant fatigue and burnout. After 10 days, Iman and her family reached their hometown, utilizing their savings and borrowed money. Quarantined for several days without health facilities, they found no suitable employment in their hometown, forcing a return to the city. Iman emphasizes the need for a clear timeline for blue-collar workers to leave cities before lockdowns, highlighting the lack of assistance and support they faced.