India Arranges Special Flights to Repatriate Citizens Stranded in Nepal
India is operating special flights to bring back citizens stranded in Nepal after violent protests forced the closure of Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. The Ministry of Civil Aviation, in coordination with Air India and IndiGo, has arranged additional flights following the airport's reopening. The move aims to assist hundreds of home-bound passengers, including nearly 190 travellers who were rescued from the airport by the Indian embassy and provided temporary accommodation. Airlines have been advised to maintain reasonable fares.
Unpacked:
The protests in Nepal were youth-driven demonstrations sparked by unemployment, political corruption, and disenchantment with traditional political parties, leading to widespread unrest and the temporary shutdown of Kathmandu's airport.
Indian embassy officials escorted stranded travellers from the airport to nearby hotels for temporary accommodation, providing relief after many had spent hours without food or water. They also coordinated with local authorities and airlines for their eventual evacuation.
Scheduled flights between India and Nepal have resumed, with additional relief flights operating. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs advises citizens to defer travel to Nepal until stability returns and to follow local safety advisories.
The Indian government has instructed airlines to maintain reasonable fares for evacuation and relief flights. Authorities are monitoring ticket prices to ensure airlines do not exploit the situation.