Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Mar 1: The government of Karnataka has fully activated its emergency response mechanisms following significant disruptions to international flight operations caused by the prevailing conflict in the Middle East. Several nations have declared a closure of airspace (NOTAM), leaving a large number of passengers, including those from Karnataka, stranded in affected countries, particularly in the UAE.

According to the latest advisory from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, airspace over Iran, Israel, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, UAE, and Qatar remains closed until March 2.

State emergency response activated

On the directions of the chief minister and the revenue minister, the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) and all District Emergency Operations Centres (DEOCs) are now functioning 24x7. These centres are monitoring the fluid situation and extending necessary assistance to stranded residents and their families.

The Karnataka resident commissioner has also activated the Karnataka Bhavan team in New Delhi to maintain close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and its Rapid Response Cell.

Guidelines for stranded Kannadigas

The state government has urged people from Karnataka residing in the affected regions to strictly adhere to the guidelines and advisories issued by local governments. Stranded citizens are advised to:

• Contact respective Indian Embassies or Consulates through designated helpline numbers.

• Register on the Sarthi Sahayata portal and other official embassy portals.

• Contact the nearest FRRO for any visa-related matters.

Emergency Helpline Numbers

The government has released comprehensive helpline details for those seeking assistance. Requests received at the state and district levels are being compiled and forwarded to the MEA for immediate action.

District-specific helplines (Select Districts):

• Dakshina Kannada: 0824-2442590

• Udupi: 0820-1077, 0820-2574802

• Bengaluru Urban: 080-22967200

• Uttara Kannada: 08382-229857

The situation is being continuously monitored by the relief commissioner and principal secretary, Munish Moudgil, with further updates to be issued as necessary.