The Karnataka government has repatriated 18 of 283 citizens stranded in conflict-affected West Asian countries, as airspace restrictions disrupt international flights from Bengaluru. Officials confirmed that these individuals have returned safely, following coordination between the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Karnataka Bhavan.

Stranded Population and Regional Distribution

Of the 283 stranded individuals, 198 are Keralites located in the United Arab Emirates, while the remaining citizens are spread across Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Turkey. The conflict-driven instability in these regions has led to a significant number of Indian expatriates seeking repatriation.

Karnataka Bhavan, the state’s official overseas mission in New Delhi, is actively coordinating with the MEA and local embassies to facilitate the safe return of the remaining stranded citizens. The government has urged expatriates to register on official portals and follow local advisories for updates on evacuation efforts.

Flight Disruptions and Airspace Restrictions

Due to airspace restrictions imposed by the conflict, 42 flights at Kempegowda International Airport were canceled. These cancellations have affected both departures and arrivals to key international destinations, including West Asia and the Middle East.

The airport authorities have confirmed that flight operations are gradually resuming. Passengers are advised to check for real-time updates through the AirSewa portal and the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MOCA) helpline. The disruption has caused significant inconvenience for travelers planning to travel to or from the affected regions.

Officials from the Karnataka government have stated that the situation is being closely monitored, and all efforts are being made to ensure the safe return of the remaining stranded citizens. The government has emphasized the importance of following local advisories and maintaining communication with relevant authorities for assistance.

Repatriation Efforts and Future Steps

According to the government, the repatriation process is ongoing and will continue as per the availability of safe passage. The MEA and Karnataka Bhavan are working closely to ensure that all stranded citizens are accounted for and provided with the necessary support.

Karnataka Bhavan has been coordinating with the Indian embassies in the affected countries to arrange for safe evacuation. The government has also advised expatriates to remain in touch with their families and local authorities for any further assistance.

While 18 citizens have already returned home, the remaining 265 individuals are still waiting for safe passage. The government has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to facilitate their return as soon as possible.

Expatriates are being advised to monitor the situation closely and follow the latest updates from the MEA and local authorities. The government has also requested that stranded citizens avoid non-essential travel to the affected regions until the situation stabilizes.

The repatriation efforts highlight the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. The coordination between the MEA and state-level authorities has been crucial in managing the crisis effectively.