An escalation in West Asia, stemming from what reports describe as "US-Israel attacks on Iran," has drastically disrupted air travel, leaving hundreds of Indian nationals, predominantly from the Telugu-speaking regions, stranded in Bahrain. The crisis, which began around the last week of February, saw airspace closures that halted flights, stranding tourists and leaving many without essential supplies like medicines. This disruption has continued for at least eight consecutive days, impacting operations at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport with numerous international flight cancellations.
Authorities have begun evacuation efforts. A special flight on Saturday airlifted 140 Indian citizens, including 60 individuals of Telugu origin, from Bahrain to Kochi. These passengers, many hailing from cities and towns in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, had to make their own onward travel arrangements. Reports indicate that more people stuck in Manama and other parts of Bahrain are being evacuated in phases.
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MINISTERIAL PROMISES AND GROUND REALITY
Amidst the chaos, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu reportedly assured assistance for the stranded individuals. One traveler, Goneh Solomon Raj, recounted a phone conversation where the minister promised arrangements for their return, possibly via Dammam. However, the immediate reality for many was a stark lack of resources. Reports highlight the plight of individuals, including an elderly woman, running out of vital medications for conditions like blood pressure and diabetes, which were reportedly unobtainable without prescriptions in Bahrain.
GOVERNMENTAL RESPONSE AND HELPLINES
The situation prompted calls for intervention from top political figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. In response, the Andhra Pradesh government has initiated measures to aid its citizens. Minister Kondapalli Srinivas announced the activation of helplines and the deployment of Andhra Pradesh Non-Resident Telugu Society (APNRTS) coordinators in the Gulf to provide immediate support. These helplines, including a 24/7 contact number and WhatsApp service, have been established to assist Telugu expatriates facing distress. APNRTS officials are reportedly coordinating with the central government and embassies to facilitate safe returns.
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WIDER IMPACT ON TRAVEL
The repercussions of the West Asian conflict extend beyond Bahrain. At least 16 flights originating from Gulf nations to Hyderabad were cancelled on Thursday, with 15 departing flights from Hyderabad to Gulf countries also annulled. While flights from Oman were noted as operational, the overall situation has created significant uncertainty in air travel between the region and India.
BACKGROUND TO THE CRISIS
The current predicament appears to be a direct consequence of escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, specifically following reported "US-Israel attacks on Iran." This led to the immediate shutdown of airspace across the region, causing widespread flight cancellations and stranding thousands of Indian travelers who were on holiday or visiting the Gulf countries. Many had arrived in Bahrain in late February for short trips, only to find themselves caught in an unprecedented travel disruption.
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