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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday said that efforts are underway to bring back Indians stranded in West Asia due to the ongoing regional conflict, and many are expected to return within the next two to three days.

Addressing the Maharashtra Legislative Council during the Budget Session, Fadnavis said the evacuation process is being led by the Central government, while the state government is coordinating closely with authorities and local Indian communities.

Helpline Issued, Marathi Mandals Contacted

The Chief Minister said the state government immediately activated support mechanisms after receiving distress messages from Indians stranded in the region.

He said the government contacted the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian embassies in affected countries, while Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Girish Mahajan was assigned to oversee coordination efforts.

“We issued a WhatsApp helpline number and advisories to assist stranded people. We are also in touch with them through Marathi Mandals operating in those countries,” Fadnavis told the House.

Flights Gradually Bringing Back Stranded Citizens

Fadnavis said flight services are gradually resuming in parts of the region, allowing evacuation efforts to progress.

He noted that while certain airspaces remain closed due to the conflict, others have reopened, enabling airlines such as Air India to start bringing passengers back to India.

He also mentioned that Indian authorities have been working to assist people facing visa-related difficulties in countries like Kuwait and ensure they are accommodated safely until their return.

Centre Monitoring Situation Amid Escalating Conflict

The Chief Minister assured the House that the government is committed to bringing all stranded Indians home safely. He said the Centre is closely monitoring the situation and taking decisions carefully to avoid any chaos amid unsafe airspace conditions.

“The Government of India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is sensitive to the safety of Indian tourists and students in the region. We expect that those stranded will return within the next two to three days,” Fadnavis said.

The evacuation efforts come amid escalating tensions in West Asia following military strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which have led to widespread flight disruptions and airspace closures across the region.