Tourists stranded in Middle East, Punjab govt sets up 24x7 helpline

The Punjab government on Monday issued a dedicated helpline for Punjabis stranded in parts of the Middle East as tensions and conflict across several Arab countries continue to disrupt travel and daily life.

Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Dr Ravjyot Singh said the state administration had activated its NRI Wing control room after receiving reports that Punjabi tourists and residents in the region were facing serious difficulties.

“Because of the conflict in Arab countries, many Punjabis in those nations are facing difficulties,” the minister said during a press interaction in Chandigarh. “Today, we are releasing the NRI Wing contact numbers. If anyone, personally, or any member of their family, is stuck in these countries, please contact us immediately.”

COORDINATION WITH CENTRE

Dr Ravjyot Singh said the Punjab government was in constant touch with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure assistance reaches those affected at the earliest.

“I am in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs, and we are committed to providing all necessary assistance to them as soon as possible,” he said.

24 BY 7 CONTROL ROOM ACTIVATED

The NRI Wing of the Punjab government has set up a round-the-clock control room to receive distress calls and coordinate support for families in Punjab and those stranded abroad.

The announcement was made during a press conference organised by the Punjab unit of the Aam Aadmi Party in Chandigarh.

State officials said families with relatives stuck in the affected Middle East countries should reach out without delay, assuring that every possible effort would be made to facilitate help through diplomatic and official channels.

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