Chandigarh: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday said he spoke to Union civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu regarding the safe return of Punjabis stranded in Arab countries amid the Iran–Israel conflict.
In a Facebook post, Mann said the Union minister assured him that arrangements would be made for special flights to facilitate the safe evacuation of affected individuals. He added that details of stranded Punjabis have already been shared with the Centre.
For assistance, the Punjab government has activated a 24/7 NRI wing control room. People can contact 0172-2260042, 0172-2260043 or WhatsApp at +91 94787 79112 for information.
The chief minister said ensuring the safe return of Punjabis is his government’s top priority. He also informed that cabinet minister Dr Ravjot Singh is being deputed to coordinate with the Union civil aviation ministry to press for special evacuation flights.
A large number of Punjabis, including students, are currently stranded in several Arab nations due to escalating tensions. Families in Punjab have expressed concern over their safety. Mann noted that relatives of several prominent industrialists and even the family of Punjabi singer Ammy Virk are among those affected.
The state government said it remains in close coordination with the Government of India to expedite the evacuation process.
