‘The pictures we take all day keep flashing in our minds all night’

In our special series First Responders, we focus on the intrepid media professionals on the ground, at the frontline of covering the COVID-19 crisis. These journalists are putting their lives at risk to bring updates on Government efforts and human suffering, uncovering stories from affected areas, hospitals and even crematoriums, while mitigating the threat of fake news. Here, we profile four exceptional journalists and bring you their stories.

Pradeep Dhivar, Principal Photographer, Mid-Day captures images of the pandemic across Mumbai but keeps himself isolated at home so that his wife and daughter are safe. Some time ago, he was shocked to see a huge crowd of migrant labourers gather at the Bandra station, based on the wrong information that trains had started, and they could go back to their native place. Over to Pradeep.

 What have you been covering specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic on the field and since when?

Since the lockdown started on March 25, and even during the Janta curfew on March 22, we covered how the police are managing the situation. We saw how they tackled roadblocks and requested people not to gather in crowds or roam around. I have covered riots earlier in my career. But this experience of covering the pandemic has been absolutely different. In this case, we just don’t know how and when anybody can get affected by the virus.

 What has been your biggest challenge?

We had visited Dharavi slums at the time of Janta curfew and realized then that social distancing over there was almost impossible. So last week, when a few individuals tested positive there, we visited the place to capture some images. It actually felt bad to see that people were still not taking this entire thing seriously. Residents were moving around freely without any sense of responsibility.

 You must have taken many photographs of the scenario in Mumbai. According to you, is there any such photograph that you may have clicked which completely shook you, or any particular experience that moved you in the process?

To be honest, when we take pictures of the situation around the city all day, the images keep flashing in our minds all night. Seeing all this is so intimidating that I have not been able to sleep all night. I was shocked to see the crowd at Bandra Station which had gathered thinking trains had started and they could return to their native places. It was appalling.

 Your family would definitely be worried about your safety...

Absolutely. They are always worried about whether I will reach home safely or not, although we take a lot of precautions. I drive a bike, so I park it in an isolated place. I sanitize my camera bag and equipment, etc., thoroughly. My wife and daughter have been told to maintain social distancing even at home. As soon as I reach home, after sanitizing my equipment and having a bath, I isolate myself in a room. They felt bad about this initially, but it is important to take precautions.

 What kind of support are you receiving from the company while reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic?

We have the company’s support. Our boss calls us 2-3 times a day and takes updates on our whereabouts. They motivate and support us through everything.

 What is your message at the end of the day…

Nothing may happen to me, but no one else should be affected because of me; that is why taking precautions is necessary.