Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has arranged two special flights to bring back 164 residents of the state stranded in the United Arab Emirates amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, reported news agency PTI.
According to an official statement, the flights are scheduled to depart from Fujairah Airport at 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm and are expected to arrive in Mumbai later in the evening.
The passengers include 84 students from Pune’s Indira School of Business Studies, along with residents from Thane, Ahilyanagar, and Pune.
Helpline Launched for Stranded Residents
In addition to evacuation efforts, the Maharashtra government has launched an emergency WhatsApp helpline to assist citizens stranded across the Middle East.
Authorities said several hundred residents from Maharashtra are currently stuck in the region due to widespread airspace closures triggered by the conflict. Officials, however, confirmed that all individuals are safe, reported PTI.
The helpline has been set up in coordination with the Indian People’s Forum in Dubai to provide immediate support and guidance to those in need.
CM Fadnavis Monitoring Situation Closely
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is personally monitoring the situation and remains in constant touch with relevant agencies, according to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
The state government is also coordinating closely with the Central government to ensure necessary assistance for stranded citizens. Minister Girish Mahajan has been assigned to oversee coordination efforts.
Flight Disruptions Leave Hundreds Stranded
The evacuation comes amid large-scale flight disruptions caused by the closure of multiple airspaces in West Asia following escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran.
Authorities are continuing to compile data on stranded citizens across Maharashtra. Among those affected is Congress MP Kalyan Kale, who is currently in Dubai.
Officials said further steps will be taken based on the evolving situation, with priority being given to ensuring the safe return of all stranded residents, reported PTI.
US President Donald Trump has said that the heavy and pinpoint bombing of Iran would continue through the week or as long as necessary.
In the wake of the situation, many airspaces in West Asia have been closed, causing massive flight disruptions and leaving passengers stranded.
(With inputs from PTI)
