K’taka govt monitoring safety of Kannadigas in Saudi Arabia amid flight disruptions: Parameshwara
Bengaluru: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara on Friday said the state government was closely monitoring the safety and well-being of Kannadigas residing in Saudi Arabia, those stranded due to flight cancellations and those planning to travel to the country amid the prevailing situation and disruptions to international flight operations.
Parameshwara said the state government was in constant touch with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to ensure the safety of Kannadigas and provide necessary assistance, particularly to Umrah pilgrims facing difficulties due to flight disruptions.
He said the government was also coordinating with the concerned authorities to assist stranded Kannadigas and facilitate their safe return as travel arrangements became available.
Parameshwara urged Kannadigas currently in Saudi Arabia to remain calm, stay vigilant and strictly follow the safety advisories issued by local authorities and the Indian Embassy. In the event of an aerial attack, they should remain indoors and avoid photographing, recording or sharing videos of security incidents, as such actions could violate local laws, he cautioned.
He also advised Kannadigas planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, particularly for Umrah, to exercise caution in view of the prevailing situation.
Travellers should regularly check advisories issued by the Indian Embassy, confirm flight schedules with their respective airlines and travel operators, and plan their journeys accordingly, keeping in mind the possibility of sudden cancellations, delays or extended stays, he said.
The following 24-hour emergency helpline numbers have been provided for Kannadigas requiring assistance in Saudi Arabia: The Indian Embassy in Riyadh can be contacted at +966 554412016 and +966 542126784. Its WhatsApp number for messages only is +966 536216082.
The Indian Consulate in Jeddah can be contacted at +966 122614093 and +966 556122301. Its WhatsApp number for messages only is +966 536209704. The toll-free number within Saudi Arabia is 8002471234.
Parameshwara said the safety of every Kannadiga remained the government’s foremost priority and assured that the state government would continue coordinating with the Indian Embassy and concerned authorities to extend all possible assistance to Kannadigas in Saudi Arabia.