A video showing Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde interacting with stranded Indian tourists in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, has gone viral, offering reassurance to families in Maharashtra.
The group, currently at Dubai International Airport, has been unable to return to India due to flight disruptions linked to Gulf airspace advisories issued by United Arab Emirates authorities amid heightened regional tensions.
23 Travellers From Thane Among Those Stranded
During the video call, members of the group informed Shinde that 23 tourists from Thane district were part of those awaiting return flights. They added that other travellers from Ahilyanagar and Pune were also affected.
Travel operators earlier indicated that more than 250 Maharashtra travellers in total have been impacted by recent cancellations and rescheduling, though not all were part of the video interaction.
“Are You All Safe?”
Opening the conversation, Shinde asked the group about their well-being. The travellers responded that they were safe and that the situation at the airport remained stable.
One traveller stated during the call that there was “no need for panic,” describing certain alarming claims circulating on social media as overstated. Another member of the group mentioned that a patient travelling with them was stable and receiving appropriate medical attention.
A reference to a drone sighting near a building the previous day was also made during the conversation. The travellers themselves said authorities had the matter under control.
Government Assures Support
Shinde assured the stranded citizens that the Maharashtra government was closely monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant authorities. He stated during the call that if required, accommodation and necessary arrangements would be made for those unable to secure immediate flights.
Upon learning that a majority of the group belonged to Thane district, he requested their contact details and said he would personally follow up to ensure assistance is provided without delay.
Diplomatic Coordination Underway
Sources indicated that the Indian Consulate in Dubai has been informed of the situation and is in touch with local authorities and airlines regarding flight updates.
The viral video has provided relief to families in Maharashtra who were concerned following reports of flight suspensions and regional instability.
Officials said coordination with aviation and diplomatic authorities is ongoing.
