Nagpur: A Nagpur-based social organisation began coordinating humanitarian assistance for passengers from Maharashtra reportedly stranded in Kuwait since February 28, after the Gulf conflict halted onward travel to the United Kingdom. According to the organisation, The Platform for Justice and Human Rights, many of those stranded were travelling on India-London routes with transit stops in Kuwait. A student and a family with a 4-year-old child were among the passengers.
With uncertainty surrounding flight schedules and transit permissions, the group said that through contacts in Saudi Arabia, volunteers helped the student guide through the transit process and facilitated support during his onward travel. On Sunday, the student arranged a new flight from Saudi Arabia to London using his own funds.However, the situation remains difficult for several others who lack the financial resources to rebook tickets, the prices of which are soaring due to the war.In the family’s case, volunteers said they are in touch with local contacts and are trying to arrange temporary accommodation and basic necessities, such as food, while clarity is awaited on travel arrangements.The organisation’s members said they are receiving calls and messages from people facing similar problems from not only Kuwait but also neighbouring regions including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, Dubai, Lebanon and Iran. Volunteers associated with the initiative are present in parts of Saudi Arabia and Iraq and are helping with local coordination, guidance and support for Indians who may require assistance.Rajiv Khobragade, a member, said the priority at present is to ensure that stranded passengers, especially families with children, have access to basic necessities until their travel issues are resolved. “We are trying to connect stranded Indians with local volunteers and extend whatever help is possible,” he said.Helpline numbers for travellers seeking assistance or informationRajiv Khobragade: +91-9960988159Mitra Swayamdeep: +91-7447516855 Sahil Sheikh: +91-8482842395
