In the challenging terrains of Faisalabad, Punjab province, two brothers, Farooq Ahmed, and Ahmed Rauf, embody unwavering commitment and resilience. Their mission is clear: a polio-free Pakistan. For years, they have worked tirelessly in one of the most inaccessible riverine union councils (UC) of Tandlianwala, where harsh weather and difficult landscapes are daily obstacles.
Photo: Farooq and Rauf working under the extreme summer season at 45 °C in Faisalabad. PC @Shahzad Mehmood/2024
Farooq Ahmed, 35, and Ahmed Rauf, 30, have been dedicated to the polio eradication program since 2007 and 2010, respectively. Union Council Tandlianwala located 40 km from Faisalabad, experiences extreme temperatures, reaching up to 50 °C (122 °F) in summer and dropping to −2 °C (28 °F) in winter. The geographical terrain is equally unforgiving, with sandy riverbeds making bicycle travel—their sole mode of transportation—exceedingly difficult.
“It’s very difficult to ride a bicycle in the riverine belt because of the river sand, especially in hot summers, when the sand becomes unbearable and we have to cover our faces,” said Farooq Ahmed.
When Farooq joined the program in 2007, he faced numerous challenges. The river cut through their assigned area, necessitating the use of a boat to transport their bikes. The scattered households meant vaccinations took significantly longer compared to other teams.
“Because of the difficult terrain and scattered population, we usually end our work very late, sometimes reaching home in the evening during the campaign week. Initially, I was confused and faced many challenges due to the distance and hard-to-reach areas. But now, I am familiar with the region and its people. I worry that if someone new takes over, they might miss houses for vaccination,” Farooq shared.
During each campaign, the brothers load their bicycles onto a boat to cross the river and reach their assigned area. Despite the harsh weather conditions, they remain undeterred, driven by their dedication to the cause. The local community holds them in high regard for their relentless efforts.
Photo: Dedicated polio workers Farooq and Rauf cross the river with their motorbikes to vaccinate children in a remote riverine UC in Faisalabad. PC @Shahzad Mehmood/2024.
“Both Ahmed and Rauf use my boat to cross the river and reach their assigned area of work. They are very regular and have never missed a day during the polio campaign week. They have earned respect from the entire community for their hard work towards ensuring a healthier future for our children,” said boatman Nazeer.
Farooq, who holds a B. ED (bachelor’s in education) degree, also teaches children in his community in the evenings. His commitment to the polio program over the past 16 years reflects his ambition to bring health and prosperity to his community.
Photo: Farooq Ahmed engaging with the community during the polio campaign in Faisalabad. PC @Shahzad Mehmood/2024.
“I have been asked many times by my family and relatives to leave the polio job since it consumes a lot of time and energy due to the distance and difficult terrain. But I am hopeful that my contributions will aid the broader polio eradication efforts in the country,” Farooq expressed.
Ahmed Rauf, inspired by his elder brother's dedication, joined the program in 2010. He chose to work in the same challenging area to contribute to the health of Pakistan's future generations.
Photo: Ahmed Rauf vaccinating children during the polio campaign in Faisalabad. PC @Shahzad Mehmood/2024.
“We both strive to vaccinate all children and not miss anyone. Initially, I found it hard to put the bicycle on the boat and reach the other side for vaccinations. But with time, I feel it is my duty to serve my community. Sometimes, our bicycles get damaged, and we rely on the local community for repairs or borrow bikes from them,” said Ahmed Rauf.
Farooq and Ahmed’s story is a testament to the extraordinary commitment and sacrifices of health workers striving for a polio-free Pakistan. Their hope is that no child will ever suffer from this crippling disease, and they continue their mission with unwavering determination.
Written by Amina Sarwar, UNICEF Pakistan Country Office