Kendrapara: He is an administrator, a fiction writer, a good Samaritan and a connoisseur of literature, all rolled into one.
Meet multi-faceted OAS officer Biraja Prasad Routray. Though disabled, Routray tirelessly works for the socio-economic uplift of disabled people like him by providing artificial limbs to them free of cost .
The 42-year-old, now officiating as a deputy collector here, has won accolades not only from Kendrapara but also from across the state for his literary works and his commitment for the disabled.
The young and talented officer was a normal human being till 2006. However he met with a road mishap in 2006 and sustained injury to his spine besides neck down paralysis. However, it did not deter him from pursuing what his heart wanted. While being tied to a wheel-chair, he makes his presence felt in society.
“When I was undergoing treatmen+t at Olatpur, I thought to end my life as I did not want to live a life depending on sympathy. However, I came across the sufferings of other of disabled persons which inspired me to fight on. This gave me an added determination to help the disabled,” Routray said.
Through his outfit PUNARBASA, he provides free physiotherapy, artificial limbs and supportive aid to disabled. Nearly a hundred disabled persons have got artificial limbs, elbow clutches free of cost. Besides, he organises other activities for various disabled people with contributions from his relatives and by spending from his pocket.
Routray wears many hats. He has written over five short story books, four poetry collections along with an essay book. From childhood, he has been into writing and has published in several vernacular dailies and magazines. He also edited nearly 15 volumes of magazines of different literary and cultural flavors.
A recipient of many literary awards, Routray bagged 11th Anjali International Bravery Award for Disabled from the Chief Minster Naveen Patnaik in 2012.
Biraja Prasad Routray, in-charge Nizarat officer-cum deputy collector, completes his assignments before time and is a popular officer in the collectorate, said district collector Debaraj Senapati. PNN