Chandrababu Naidu tells officials to ensure safe return of stranded Telugu people; Jagan seeks immediate evacuation

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday (March 2) directed officials to ensure the safe return of people from the State stranded in war-affected countries and to coordinate closely with the Centre for relief operations.

Reviewing the situation at his camp office in Amaravati with RTGS officials and representatives of the Andhra Pradesh Non-Resident Telugu Society (APNRT), he instructed authorities to work with the Centre to facilitate the return of people from Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Qatar and Kuwait. He ordered the officials to immediately contact those stranded due to flight cancellations and extend necessary assistance.

Mr. Chandrababu Naidu emphasised that the APNRT and RTGS should function in close coordination with each other, continuously monitor developments and remain in constant touch with the Centre and Indian embassies in the respective countries. He said the State government stands firmly with the stranded Telugu people and has initiated measures for their safety in Gulf countries. He advised those affected not to panic and to remain in safe areas until airports reopen and flight services resume.

A 24/7 helpline has been established (0863-2340678) as well as a WhatsApp number 85000 27678. Temporary accommodation was being arranged through APNRT coordinators. Assistance can also be sought via helpline@apnrts.com, support@apnrts.com, info@apnrts.com and through the official website https://apnrts.ap.gov.in.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy urged the government to initiate immediate and coordinated evacuation of people from Andhra Pradesh stranded in the Gulf amid the escalating tensions in West Asia.

Stating that thousands of Andhra Pradesh residents employed across Gulf nations were facing uncertainty owing to flight cancellations and restrictions, Mr. Jagan called for special evacuation arrangements in coordination with the Centre and Indian embassies.

He also suggested setting up a dedicated control room and issuing helpline numbers to provide regular updates to families, asserting that the safety of the stranded people from Andhra Pradesh must rise above political considerations and be addressed with urgency.