The central government is reportedly preparing to evacuate stranded Indian nationals from Iran amid growing concerns over safety due to ongoing unrest in the country. According to sources, the first batch
of evacuees is expected to be flown out by tomorrow.
Parents of Indian students stranded in Iran told CNN-News18 that the first batch has been informed to be ready by 8 am tomorrow. They said preparations for evacuation are underway and students have been asked to keep their documents ready.
Additionally, a passenger manifest is being prepared, and necessary approvals are being taken from various authorities in both India and Iran.
Government sources also told CNN-News18 that preparations are taking place to respond as per the situation on the ground. This includes facilitating the safe travel of Indian nationals back to India.
Officials said plans are being reviewed regularly, keeping the evolving situation in mind.
The Indian Embassy in Iran has started collecting details of Indian students stranded in different parts of the country. However, sources said the process is taking time due to an internet blackout in several areas, which has made communication difficult.
Concerns have been rising over the safety and well-being of Indian students amid ongoing unrest in Iran. Protests erupted late last month after the Iranian currency, the rial, plunged to record lows. What began as protests over economic issues has since spread across all 31 provinces, turning into demands for political change.
Rights groups claim that at least 3,428 people have died in a crackdown on nationwide protests, and the overall situation has deteriorated sharply in recent days.
According to estimates, over 10,000 Indians, including students, are currently living in Iran. On Wednesday, India had advised all its nationals in Iran to leave by available means and avoid travel to the country.
In an advisory, the Indian Embassy in Tehran urged students, pilgrims, business persons and tourists to exit Iran using commercial flights or other available transport.
