CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The Indian Embassy has issued a fresh advisory for Indian citizens living in Saudi Arabia after missile and drone attacks led to a serious security situation in the kingdom. The embassy urged Indians to remain alert, stay calm and remain indoors in the event of an air attack. Citizens have also been advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities and not to share videos or unverified reports related to incidents on social media.
24-hour control room for Indian citizens
In an update issued on October 13, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh said Indian citizens living in Saudi Arabia should keep watch on the current security situation and contact the embassy in any emergency. A 24-hour control room has also been set up to assist the Indian community.
The embassy advised citizens to remain in a safe place in case of any apprehension of an air attack and follow official instructions issued by Saudi authorities. Citizens were urged to avoid circulating unverified videos and news on social media so that rumours do not spread.
Indian dies after attack at Riyadh airport
The situation became more serious after the October 10 attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. According to the Indian Embassy, an Indian citizen injured in the incident, Mohammed Yousuf Ali, died. Several other Indian citizens were also injured in the attack.
The embassy said that as of October 13, four Indian citizens were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), four were undergoing treatment in general wards and three had been discharged from hospital. Indian officials are in contact with the injured and their families and are providing all possible assistance.
Flights cancelled, passengers advised to remain alert
Due to the security situation, operations at Riyadh airport have reportedly been suspended until October 17. Several airlines, including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo and Akasa Air, have temporarily cancelled flights to some cities in Saudi Arabia.
The embassy advised passengers to remain in contact with their airline and check the latest flight status before going to the airport. If there is a need to leave Saudi Arabia in an emergency, available flights from neighbouring Gulf countries, especially Qatar and Bahrain, may be considered. However, the visa rules of the country concerned will have to be followed.
Indian citizens present in Saudi Arabia have been urged not to panic, to rely on official information and to follow security instructions.
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