New Delhi (NVI): In a remarkable feat, Jiya Rai, a 12-year-old girl of a Naval sailor Madan Rai, created history by swimming 36 km from Bandra-Worli sea link to Gateway of India in Maharashtra to create awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
She is a known case of Autism, a complex developmental condition that involves protracted challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors.
Jiya covered a distance of 36 kms in 8 hours and 40 minutes. She was felicitated with a trophy by Zarir N Baliwala, President of Greater Mumbai Amateur Aquatic Association (GMAAA), for her achievement, according to a statement issued by Ministry of Defence.
The event was conducted by the swimming association of Maharashtra. The event was also associated with the FIT India Movement by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affair, the statement added.
The young girl had earlier swam from Elephanta Island to Gateway of India, covering a distance of 14 kms in three hours, 27 minutes and 30 seconds. She holds the world record for the youngest girl with ASD to swim 14 kms in open waters.
-CHK
