Mumbai Mayor Dons Her Old Nursing Uniform To Motivate Corona Warriors

Mumbai's first citizen, Mayor Kishori Pednekar, donned her old nursing uniform today after years to motivate the healthcare staff amid the rising cases of coronavirus in the city.

The Mayor, who had served as a nurse before joining politics, visited Mumbai's BYL Nair Hospital and interacted with nurses. She also interacted with the second and third year students of nursing, urging them to join the fight against the highly contagious disease. Ms Pednekar also said the best four or five students will be awarded the Mayor cup.

"Our doctors, nurses and staff are fighting with the pandemic. They are taking care of the patients and I want to stand with them to motivate them.," said Mayor Pednekar.

The Maharashtra government had earlier urged all retired healthcare staff to return to serve the COVID-19 patients amid a shortage of staff.

The Mayor believes that her move will motivate others to come out and join the fight against the global pandemic.

"I can sit at home but the post is not for showing off. I need to perform my responsibilities," Ms Pednekar said, adding, "The situation in Mumbai is grave and citizens should take all precautions by staying at home while we are taking care of their well-being."

The 56-year-old is a three time Shiv Sena corporator and was elected unopposed as Mumbai mayor in November 2019 with the support of NCP and Congress.

Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi praised the Mayor on Twitter and wrote, "Duty before self"

Several personalities have applauded Mayor Pednekar for boosting the morale of the frontline workers.

The total number of positive COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra is 8,068 and the number of deaths is 342, said the Health Ministry.