SRINAGAR: The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has assured all possible assistance to Indian Umrah pilgrims affected by flight disruptions, saying efforts are underway to facilitate the early return of those stranded in Saudi Arabia.
In a communication to Jammu and Kashmir National Conference MP Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan, Fahad Suri of the Consulate said the mission was aware of the difficulties faced by the pilgrims and was extending assistance to affected Indian nationals.
The Consulate has established round-the-clock control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah to address pilgrims’ concerns and is maintaining regular contact with those affected, tour operators and Saudi authorities, the communication said.
Consulate teams, with support from Indian community associations and volunteers, are also arranging essential medicines, food and other immediate necessities, particularly for vulnerable pilgrims.
The mission is coordinating with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on pilgrims’ welfare and with local authorities on visa-related issues.
Suri said the Consulate had taken up the matter of alternative travel arrangements and additional flight capacity with the concerned authorities in India and airlines.
Some affected pilgrims have already returned on available scheduled flights, while efforts are continuing to facilitate the return of the remaining passengers, he said.
The Consulate also assured continued assistance and said cases requiring specific intervention could be brought to its attention.
