Eknath Shinde came forward for the return of 164 citizens of Maharashtra stranded in UAE, arrangements for special flights

Mumbai, Read. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has arranged special flights for the safe return of 164 citizens of Maharashtra stranded in UAE due to rising tensions between Iran, Israel and America in West Asia. Due to the conflict, airspace over large parts of West Asia was closed, leaving many citizens of Maharashtra stranded in Dubai and other parts of the UAE.

Considering the seriousness of the situation, Shinde coordinated with the concerned authorities and ensured their evacuation. Two special flights operated by Star Air will depart from Fujairah Airport on Tuesday. A total of 164 passengers are expected to arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport between 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm today. These passengers include 84 students of Indira School of Business Studies, while other passengers belong to Thane, Murbad and Ahilyanagar districts. Two days ago, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde had talked to the stranded citizens and assured them of full cooperation. He had said that the Maharashtra government stands strongly with them and every possible effort will be made for their safe return. Meanwhile, four senior citizens of Umarga town are still stranded there due to the prevailing circumstances. Umarga-Lohara assembly constituency MLA Praveen Swami contacted him through video call and inquired about his safety. He said that efforts are on to bring him back soon. This matter has also been informed to the Central Government through Dharashiv District Collector Kirti Kiran Pujari. Shri Shivanand Mashalkar present in Dubai has confirmed that contact has been established with the representatives of the Central Government. Citizens of Dharashiv district stranded abroad have been advised to contact the helpline numbers issued by the administration.