🛫 Iran conflict Maharashtra Arranges Flights to Bring Home 164 Stranded in UAE; Government Launches Emergency Helpline

In response to the ongoing West Asia conflict that has disrupted air travel and stranded many Indian citizens abroad, the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government has arranged special flights to bring back 164 residents stuck in the United Arab Emirates and launched a dedicated emergency helpline to assist hundreds more from the state.

✈️Iran conflict: Two Special Flights to Mumbai

Officials said two aircraft have been organised to depart from Fujairah Airport — one at 3:30 pm and another at 4:30 pm on Tuesday — carrying a total of 164 people back to Mumbai.

Those on board include:

• 84 students from the Pune-based Indira School of Business Studies, and

• Residents from Thane, Pune and Ahilyanagar.

Shinde’s office said he has been in regular contact with those stranded since the conflict intensified, and described the flights as part of the state’s efforts to support its citizens amid travel chaos caused by the closure of airspace throughout the Gulf region.

☎️ Emergency WhatsApp Helpline Launched

To provide assistance to hundreds of other Maharashtra residents still abroad, the state government has activated a special WhatsApp helpline in coordination with local support groups in the UAE. The number is:

📱 +971 50 365 4357 — available for stranded individuals seeking help, information or coordination support.

Officials said families of those stuck outside India can also reach out through the helpline for updates on flights and repatriation options.

🌍 Background: Conflict and Flight Disruptions

The situation arose after airspace closures and widespread flight cancellations triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Thousands of passengers — including tourists, workers and students — were unable to return to India due to grounded flights and disrupted schedules.

Across the region, governments and airlines are attempting limited flight operations where possible, while foreign missions and state authorities have stepped up helplines and evacuation measures.

📌 Maharashtra Government’s Ongoing Efforts

The state’s outreach has included:

• Coordination with community organisations in the UAE

• Regular communication with stranded groups

• Identifying those who need priority flights or assistance

• Pushing for safe repatriation in consultation with central authorities and embassies

Among the stranded in the UAE is a Congress MP from Maharashtra, whose presence abroad added urgency to local efforts to get residents home.

📍 What Stranded Indians Are Being Advised

While flights remain limited, travellers are advised to:

• Stay informed via official helplines and embassy contacts

• Avoid unnecessary travel to airports until flight details are confirmed

• Keep travel documents readily accessible, and

• Follow safety advisories issued by local authorities.

The Maharashtra government and Indian missions continue to monitor the situation closely, hoping to bring back more residents as airspace and flight operations stabilise.