Kathmandu, March 20: The Nepali citizens were stranded at various transit points while travelling to their destinations following the unrest in West Asia. However, with recent easing of situation, they have begun continuing their journeys.
In the beginning, difficulties were reported from Doha, Dubai, Jeddah and Kuwait cities. Now, though limited, flights have resumed in Doha and Qatar and all the Nepalis who were stranded there have left for their respective destinations.
Fifty-two Hajj pilgrims, who were in troubles at Jeddah of Saudi Arabia, returned home on March 19. Similarly, 33 Nepali citizens have got their visa ensured to travel to Saudi Arabia from Kuwait City.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organised a press conference on Friday to share information about the latest developments in West Asia (Middle East), and efforts made so far for the safety and support of Nepali citizens there.
Friday marks 21 days since the eruption of unrest in West Asia. Despite various efforts to thwart the unrest, drone and missile attacks targeting the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations continue.
As shared by Ministry Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Chhetri at the press meet, one Nepali was killed in the UAE in the attack and 20 Nepalis have sustained minor injures. Among the injured, all except one have been discharged. The one still in the hospital is, however, out of a life- threatening condition.
Besides these incidents, all the Nepali citizens residing in such areas are safe, it is said.
Following the unrest in West Asia, the Ministry had formed an Emergency Response Team, comprising representatives from various bodies under the convenorship of Ministry Secretary. The Team has already held its third meeting. Even the Emergency Control Room established at the Ministry is operating round-the-clock.
The number of Nepali citizens officially registered for necessary coordination and potential rescue from the region has reached 82,100 as of Friday.
Meanwhile, seven Nepalis have been arrested for creating and sharing contents, including uploading video and photos on social sites that could spread fear or panic. “It is the responsibility of everyone to abide by security protocols, and rules and regulations of the country where they are residing and it applies during the crisis as well,” Chhetri added.
In the given adversity, notices, advisories and directives issued for the public and others are legally binding. Hence, any violation may result in fines, imprisonment, deportation and other severe legal consequences, he warned.
“The number of people approaching the Ministry through its online system, its missions and the Emergency Control Room reporting that “I am unsafe” has gradually declined. On Friday, no such calls, messages or emails were received by the Ministry via its system. On Thursday, number of such calls and messages stood at 7.
