Indian teen girl with autism swims from Sri Lanka to Tamil Nadu in 13 hours

Jiya Rai, a 13 year old autistic girl from Mumbai, swam a distance of 28.5 km from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka to Arichalmunai in Tamil Nadu's Dhanushkodi, garnering widespread appreciation. The girl, who is the daughter of a Navy Officer, swam the disctance in 13 hours.

After acquiring permission from Sri Lankan and the Indian Authorities, Jiya Rai began her journey at 4:22 am on Sunday, March 20, and reached Arichalmunai by 5:32.

Tamil Nadu Director General of Police Sailendra Babu, who was present when Jiya Rain finished the swim, appreciated her, Madhan Rai, her father, and mother Regina Rai, for encouraging their child.

"This sea is filled with sea snakes, milk sharks and Jellyfish. Also, you can't predict the current in these waters and Jiya Rai still swam through it, which definitely should be appreciated," stated Sailendra Babu.

To assist Jiya Rai, the Sri Lankan Navy gave her protection until the international maritime border from where the Indian cost guard took over.