Punjab government alert amid Middle East crisis, made nodal officers for safe return of stranded Punjabis and started 24×7 helpline.

Chandigarh, March 5: To ensure the safe return of stranded Punjabis amid the ongoing war-like situation in the Middle East region, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has deployed two senior officials to coordinate and monitor the entire process. As per the instructions of the Chief Minister, a 24×7 helpline has already been set up with immediate effect. Additional Director General of Police R.K. Jaiswal has been appointed overall in-charge of the helpline, while Home Department Secretary Vimal Setia has been made the nodal officer for coordination and monitoring purposes.

Officials will be in constant touch with the Foreign Ministry

On behalf of the government, the nodal officer has been instructed to be in constant touch with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, so that the situation of Indians stranded in the Middle East and other countries can be continuously monitored and coordination can be done immediately if needed.

Helpline and monitoring system to help stranded people

The nodal officers will continuously monitor the steps being taken by the Government of India to ensure the safety and evacuation of Indian nationals stranded in the Middle East Asia and other countries. Accurate records of all calls received on the helpline will be maintained and immediate action will be taken. If necessary, matters will be taken up with the Ministry of External Affairs or concerned departments on priority basis.

Punjab government committed to provide all possible help

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said the step has been taken in view of the emergency situation involving residents of Punjab stranded in the Middle East and other countries. He said that the aim of this initiative is to provide necessary assistance and support to the affected people and their families in this time of crisis. The Chief Minister also said that the Punjab Government stands firmly with the Punjabis stranded in the Gulf region and is fully committed to providing them all possible assistance.