Indian Embassy Organizes Return for Stranded Nationals in Bahrain via Saudi Arabia
The Indian embassy in Bahrain has stepped in to assist compatriots stranded in the country, as commercial flights from Bahrain airport have been suspended since February 28. With no direct flights available, the embassy has coordinated a solution involving transit through Saudi Arabia to facilitate their return to India.
Transit Visa Arrangements Through Saudi Arabia
Vinod K. Jacob, the Indian Ambassador to Bahrain, detailed the embassy's efforts. "The embassy in Riyadh is obtaining individual transit visa approvals from the Saudi government. Transit visa requests are being referred by the Indian embassy in Bahrain to the Indian embassy in Riyadh. Priority is being given to stranded Indian nationals, especially those on tourist or short-term visas," he stated.
This initiative is crucial because returning via Saudi Arabia is currently the only viable option for Indians stuck in Bahrain. However, applicants must meet specific pre-conditions to qualify for the Saudi transit visa:
- Possess a confirmed flight ticket for onward travel to India.
- The transit visa will be valid for 72 to 96 hours, requiring travelers to depart Saudi Arabia within this timeframe.
Limited Flight Options in the Region
In contrast, neighboring Qatar has seen a slight resumption of flights, including some operated by Qatar Airways to India. Despite this, the number of flights remains insufficient to meet the high demand, making the Saudi transit route a critical Plan B for many.
The Indian embassy in Doha provided an update: "Qatar Airways operated a Doha-Delhi flight on Monday, carrying over 300 Indian passengers stranded in Doha. Over the last three days, close to 1,000 Indians stranded in Doha on transit or short-term visits have departed on Qatar Airways flights."
Nevertheless, the scramble for Saudi transit visas continues, as the limited Qatar flights cannot accommodate all stranded individuals.
Government Efforts to Increase Flights
The Indian government is actively working to enhance flight connectivity to West Asia. In response to the ongoing situation, the Civil Aviation Ministry is scheduled to hold a meeting with airlines and other stakeholders on Tuesday. This discussion aims to address the logistical challenges and explore options for increasing the number of flights to the region, thereby providing more avenues for stranded nationals to return home.
As the situation evolves, the embassies in Bahrain and Qatar remain committed to supporting Indian citizens, ensuring their safe and timely repatriation amidst the flight disruptions.
