A private bus driver turned saviour for a 20-year-old woman who allegedly jumped into the Periyar from the Paravur-Manjali bridge, reportedly distressed over a below-par exam results, on Friday noon. The driver, identified as Ajesh, 41, braved the swollen river to rescue her.

He was driving along his route when he noticed a crowd gathered on the bridge, following which he stopped the bus and plunged into the waters. She was rushed to the Ernakulam Government Medical College Hospital, where her condition was reported stable.

(Those in distress or having suicidal tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling any of the following numbers: DISHA - 1056, 0471-2552056, State’s health helpline 104, Maithri - 0484-2540530, Thanal Suicide Prevention Centre - 0495-2760000.)