SHANGHAI: A heroic man from southwest China, who risked his life two years ago to save countless villagers during a flooding crisis, recently celebrated the birth of his son in August, receiving a wave of congratulations on the mainland internet.
On September 5, 2022, a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake hit Sichuan province, near a dam where Gan Yu and his colleague, Luo Yong, were working.
Faced with the imminent threat of a dam collapse, the pair undertook a courageous endeavour by climbing to the top of the structure and opening the lock gate.
This action released water from the reservoir, effectively averting a catastrophic flood that would have endangered hundreds of villagers living downstream, as reported by Sichuan-based media outlet The Cover.
Gan, now 30, said on social media that his son was born at a hospital on August 16 in Sichuan.
“Finally, you’ve come. My only wish is that you will be safe and happy and grow up healthily,” he wrote.
Following their heroic act, Gan and Luo remained at the dam overnight to monitor its safety.
They made the decision to leave the next day due to the surrounding mountains, which posed a risk of landslides.
Eventually, the two parted ways in search of rescue workers.
Exhausted from their efforts, Gan lost his way in the treacherous terrain.
Rescue workers managed to locate Luo after three days in the mountains, but Gan was discovered 17 days later by a kind villager, who welcomed him into his home and offered shelter while Gan took the time he needed to recover from his ordeal.
Guo said he managed to survive while he was lost by drinking river water and eating wild fruits.
After a few days, the villager carried him down the mountain and sent him to hospital for treatment.
Gan was discharged from hospital after a two-week stay.
“He has taught me what the most perfect love looks like. I have used all of my good luck by meeting him,” said Zheng.
The birth of their son ignited a wave of heartfelt congratulations across mainland social media, with friends and strangers alike sharing in their joy.
“Congratulations. They say that if you survive a catastrophe, you will be blessed later,” one netizen said.
Another commented: “The baby’s birth is the best gift for this hero dad.” - South China Morning Post
