Humanity in Action

Humanity in Action

Does it usually require a calamity to elicit the utmost out of man? Certain ingredians force us to belive that only emergrncies can make man prove their powers.

Al least the spontaneous overflow of benovolence exibited by the lowliest fisherman in Perumon on 8 july 1988 proves the theory. These common fisherman who had laboured hard , had eaten and drunk, had procrated and engaged in resuation just like any common man, proved to be angel of mercy on that day. on that fateful day, the Island Express plunged into the river Astamudi, carrying thousands of passengers in it.The cries of thousnds of passengers, man, women and children, rent the air.

The local fisherman stood in a gape for a moment. Immediately they realised the cause of the din and cries. It took no time for them to realize that it was an emergency that brooked no delay. They plunged into action straightaway. Hectic and untiring activity followed. They were not fully conscious of all that they were doing. But the goal was quite clear in their minds- to save as many lives as possible. Mindeless of damage, they exersised all their powers. And in the end when all that was humanly possible, has been done, they sat down exhausted. Later when they recollected what they had done, they wondered at their own aceivement, with unutterable joy.

The exellent service rendered by the fisherman of Perumon, has been well recognised. The Railways and Government of Keralahave come foreward with presents in recognition of this sterling service. Millions of people who cannot offer presents, have enshrined the memories of this yeoman service in their heerts.

Article By: A.C. John,St.Alberts College