Middle East Conflict: 160 people, including 84 students, flown in from Dubai

Mumbai: Amid the US-Iran war, the first of the two flights, arranged by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, carrying around 160 people from the state, including 84 students stranded in Dubai, arrived in Mumbai on two chartered flights late on Tuesday night. 

Who were these students?

Among the returnees were 84 students from Indira School of Business Studies, Pune, who had travelled to Dubai on a five-day “international immersion programme” and had to return last week but and were unable to board their scheduled flights.

According to officials, students approached Eknath Shinde for assistance. Shinde also spoke to the stranded citizens about two days ago, and assured them that the state government would facilitate their return. 

"Do not worry. The Maharashtra government and I personally stand with you. All efforts will be made to bring you back safely," he told them, according to his office.

The students along with three faculty members were flown in on two Embraer aircraft of Star Air.

Who made the arrangements?

The flight arrangements were made by  Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde. The party reached out to the students and other people stuck as the war in West Asia escalates. 

According to the deputy chief minister’s office, the two Star Air flights departed on Tuesday afternoon from Fujairah International Airport and landed in Mumbai at night.

What did the student say after reaching India?

One of the students, Nihal Gawas, said, “While leaving Dubai, we saw an explosion.” 

Another student, Nikhil Patil, said, “Our parents were very worried. Our college made excellent arrangements, and were sent our parents videos of us eating and resting in the hotel, which calmed them."

Who received the passengers on arrival?

The Shiv Sena had deputed three of its MLAs, Murji Patel, Dilip Lande and Mangesh Kudalkar, to receive the passengers on their arrival from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The party also organised transport to take the passengers to their destinations, said Shaina NC.