A significant number of Indian citizens, approximately 400, are stranded at Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, amidst ongoing protests. The protests have resulted in numerous flight cancellations, causing significant difficulties for travelers. Several individuals have recounted their experiences in a video.
The stranded individuals report that despite completing immigration, the airline staff left them at the airport, offering no assistance. The staff members reportedly disappeared, leaving the passengers in a precarious situation. A mood of fear and uncertainty is present among the Indians at the airport, given the chaos outside.
[YouTube video]
Staff Desertion
Passengers have stated that after completing immigration, the flight staff informed them that their flights had been canceled and instructed them to go back. However, no alternatives were provided. When the passengers hesitated to leave the airport due to the unstable conditions, the staff left them.
The passengers are expressing their helplessness, lacking any support, and are unsure of where to go. The unrest is occurring a short distance from the airport. Although the Indian embassy has provided emergency numbers, no measures have yet been taken to repatriate the stranded passengers to India.
Indian Government’s Response
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs commented, “We are closely following the developments in Nepal from yesterday and are deeply saddened by the loss of several young lives. Our sympathies and prayers are with the families of the deceased. We also wish the injured a speedy recovery.”
India has additionally expressed the expectation that the situation in Nepal will find a peaceful resolution. Indian citizens in Nepal are being advised to practice caution and follow the directives of Nepali authorities.