The evacuation reflects India’s broader policy of providing support and logistical help to citizens abroad during emergencies
Around 140 Indian nationals stranded in Bahrain due to regional travel disruptions have safely returned home following a coordinated evacuation effort involving government authorities, airlines and community organizations.
The passengers arrived at Cochin International Airport in Kerala after a special flight operation arranged to assist travellers who had been unable to return to India due to disruptions affecting air travel across parts of West Asia.
Among those on board were approximately 60 Telugu-speaking passengers from the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Many of the travellers had been waiting in Bahrain for several days after airline schedules were affected by regional aviation restrictions.
Officials involved in the operation said the evacuation required careful coordination across multiple countries. Stranded passengers were first transported from Bahrain to Dammam in Saudi Arabia, from where a Gulf Air flight carried them onward to Kochi.
The special flight departed Dammam late on March 10 and landed in Kerala in the early hours of March 11, bringing relief to families who had been anxiously waiting for their relatives to return.
Upon arrival, airport authorities facilitated immigration procedures and travel arrangements so passengers could continue to their final destinations. Many travellers proceeded onward to cities such as Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.
Passengers expressed gratitude for the assistance provided during the disruption, noting that community volunteers played an important role in supporting stranded travellers.
Organizations including the Bahrain Telugu Association helped provide temporary accommodation, meals and logistical assistance while passengers waited for evacuation plans to be finalized.
-
Indian diplomatic missions in the region maintained regular communication with the stranded citizens throughout the disruption
-
Officials monitored the evolving aviation situation and worked with airline operators and regional authorities to arrange transportation
The successful operation underscores the importance of cooperation between governments, airlines and diaspora groups during travel emergencies affecting overseas citizens.
India has one of the world’s largest expatriate populations in the Gulf region, with millions of Indians living and working in countries such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.
Because of this large presence, disruptions in regional travel—whether caused by geopolitical tensions, airspace restrictions or operational challenges—can have significant implications for Indian travellers.
Authorities say they will continue monitoring travel conditions in West Asia and remain prepared to organize further assistance if additional disruptions occur.
