DAMMAM, 28 April 2008 - A ladies-only compartment in a Dammam to Riyadh train yesterday was turned into a makeshift labor room when a pregnant Saudi woman gave birth to a baby boy. The ticket inspector - after recovering from an initial feeling of helplessness - produced a first-aid kit and an oxygen cylinder. He also reassured the woman's mother not to worry, as the Riyadh station was only one hour away. Worse yet, the women did not have any men accompanying them. In the meantime he reported the matter to the train's destination in Riyadh and requested an ambulance. Shortly before the train's arrival, passengers and train workers were relieved when the woman gave birth to a boy. According to Muhammad Abu Zaid, Saudi Railways public relations director, this is the second time a woman has delivered a baby in a Saudi train.
