The state government is again ready to join the crusade to spread awareness about HIV/AIDS. The Red Ribbon Express (RRE) train that will travel across India to dispel from people's minds the taboo and myths attached to HIV and AIDS will reach Gujarat on December 20 and will stay in the state for 13 days. Around 203 villages will be covered by RRE during its journey in the state.
It will begin its journey from Palanpur and will cover four districts and six railway stations. The train will halt at Ahmedabad station for three days. The train will also touch Bhavnagar, Botad, Wakaner and Bhaktinagar.
Apart from spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS, RRE will also make people aware about swine flu and other viral infections. On the train, testing of HIV and other infections will also be done for free.
"The train had received tremendous response in Gujarat. As a result, we are planning to make the event more beneficial for citizens. This time, the government will also do HIV testing free of cost besides spreading awareness about the same," said health and family welfare minister Jaynarayan Vyas at a press conference on Thursday evening.
"Through this train we also want to take the opportunity to make people adopt preventive health habits and lifestyle," added Vyas.
While three coaches of the train will have exhibition on HIV/AIDS, the other coaches will showcase awareness on general health, hygiene and communicable diseases such as swine flu, tuberculosis and RCH services.
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