Sunil Lohan
In view of the prevailing situation in Saudi Arabia and disruptions to international flight operations, our Government is closely monitoring the safety and well-being of Kannadigas residing in Saudi Arabia,those stranded due to flight cancellations,and those planning to travel there from Karnataka.
Nearly 600 Umrah pilgrims from Karnataka are currently stranded in Saudi Arabia due to flight disruptions.
We are in constant touch with the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to ensure their safety and extend necessary assistance.
The Embassy and Consulate are coordinating with airlines and tour operators to facilitate the early return of affected pilgrims.
Our Minority Welfare,Haj and Waqf Department and the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC),under the Revenue Department, are coordinating assistance with the Ministry of External Affairs.
We have also activated dedicated helplines through the Haj Department and SEOC to assist stranded Kannadigas and their families.
I urge all 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,remain indoors and avoid photographing,recording or sharing videos of security incidents, as this may violate local laws.
Kannadigas planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, particularly for Umrah,are advised to exercise caution, stay updated on official advisories and verify flight schedules with their airlines and tour operators before proceeding to the airport.
24×7 EMERGENCY HELPLINES :
Karnataka Haj Department
9483503132 | 7899707775.
State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC)
1070 | 080-22253707.
Indian Embassy, Riyadh.
Telephone: +966 554412016 / +966 542126784
WhatsApp: +966 536216082 (Messages only).
Indian Consulate, Jeddah.
Telephone: +966 122614093 / +966 556122301
WhatsApp: +966 536209704 (Messages only).
Toll-Free (within Saudi Arabia): 8002471234.
Kannadigas facing difficulties and their families are requested to contact these helplines for necessary assistance.
The safety of every Kannadiga remains our foremost priority. Our Government will continue coordinating with the Indian Embassy and concerned authorities to ensure all possible assistance to our people in Saudi Arabia.
