Safe return of 84 students from Dubai amid US-Iran tension, reached Mumbai by chartered flight

Maharashtra: The increasing tension between America and Iran suddenly changed the atmosphere of West Asia. Amidst this uncertain situation, about 160 people from Maharashtra stranded in Dubai finally heaved a sigh of relief when they reached Mumbai by special chartered planes late on Tuesday night. These included 84 students who had gone to Dubai for studies. As soon as we landed at the airport, relief after fear was clearly visible on many faces.

Most of the students of Pune-based Indira University were in Dubai as part of a five-day international study programme. Three faculty members also accompanied him. His return was postponed due to worsening circumstances. The university administration took the situation seriously and contacted the state’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. After this, two chartered flights were arranged, by which everyone was brought safely to Mumbai.

University professor Chetan Wakalkar said that the students were to return last week itself, but their journey got affected due to the war-like situation. According to Vice Chancellor Anagha Joshi, as soon as information about the matter was received, contact was immediately established and the process of safe return was started.

Moments passed between fear and anxiety

Students stranded in Dubai recalled the stressful moments spent there. Student Nihal Gavas told that he had heard the sound of explosion in the city, due to which everyone got scared. Nikhil Patil said that his parents were very worried. The college maintained constant contact and sent videos to the families that the students were safe, which brought them some relief.

Shakuntala Kashid of Kolhapur, who had gone to Dubai with her sons for the first time, said that she was scared after the explosion near the hotel. He said that returning home safely is the biggest relief. Keshav Vekhande of Kalyan also expressed his gratitude for the help.

welcome at mumbai airport

On reaching Mumbai the passengers were welcomed by Shiv Sena leaders. The party also made arrangements for buses and other vehicles for the onward journey, so that everyone could reach their respective cities safely. During this time, many families became emotional after meeting their children.

Impact on flights and government surveillance

The Union Civil Aviation Ministry said that due to the changed conditions in West Asia, many flights have been affected. Thousands of flights have been canceled so far. However, Indian airlines are continuously trying to bring back the stranded citizens. Many special flights were operated on Tuesday also. There are plans to operate more flights in the coming days.