Indian government alert amid Middle East crisis, special control room created to help Indians

Report: Ravi Manjhi, Abu Dhabi

In view of the increasing tension and war-like situation in the Middle East, the Government of India has taken a big step for the safety of its citizens (Middle East Crisis). Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has set up a special control room to assist Indians living in West Asia and Gulf countries, which will provide information and help in case of any emergency.

In the statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, it has been said that this control room has been created in view of the rapidly changing situation in the area. Its objective is to answer the questions of Indian citizens living there and to provide them immediate assistance when needed.

This control room will be active every day from 9 am to 9 pm (Indian time). Citizens can contact the numbers 1800118797 (toll free), +91 11 2301 2113, +91 11 2301 4104 and +91 11 2301 7905 for assistance.

A special helpline (Middle East Crisis) has also been issued for Indian citizens living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The emergency helpline of the Indian Embassy there can be contacted on +971 54 3090571 (Whatsapp) and 80046342 (toll free).

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, about one crore Indian citizens live and work in West Asia and the Gulf region. In such a situation, their safety and well-being is the top priority of the Government of India.

The ministry has also said that it is constantly monitoring the changing circumstances in the region and is in regular touch with the governments there (Middle East Crisis), so that immediate assistance can be provided to Indian citizens if needed.