About 1,600 Indians travelled from Qatar to India, Embassy says
New Delhi, March 18
Qatar Airways operated five flights to India on Tuesday, a statement by the Indian Embassy in Qatar said.
These included two flights to Delhi and one each to Mumbai, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. In total, about 1,600 Indian nationals travelled on Qatar Airways flights that day.
It may be noted that Qatar airspace remains largely closed and Qatar Airways is only operating limited, non-scheduled flights. It has announced flights to nine Indian destinations from tomorrow. As advised earlier, bookings can be made through Qatar Airways website, App or through travel agents, the statement said.
Embassy of India, Doha continues to facilitate temporary transit visas for Saudi Arabia for stranded Indian nationals who wish to travel to India via Saudi Arabia through land route across Salwa border.
Embassy of India, Doha will be open on all days in the coming week for consular services including issuance of passports. Embassy's Control Room with its helplines, email and WhatsApp continues to function on a 24/7 basis.
Qatari authorities have reiterated that adhering to the instructions issued by official authorities and demonstrating awareness and social responsibility in handling information and developments are fundamental pillars in enhancing public safety and maintaining community stability. The Indian community is requested to abide by this public notice.
Indian community organizations and the Embassy have collaborated to support the needy Indian fishermen community in Qatar with provision of dry rations, as per the statement.
Qatar Airways is operating limited flights from Doha.
Qatar Airways will operate a revised limited number of flights from 18 March to 28 March 2026. These schedules have been enhanced to give more flexibility to passengers wishing to travel.
Passengers who currently hold a confirmed booking on a flight to one of the destinations listed in the new schedule will be contacted with new flight information.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to see flights resuming, but 1600 people is a drop in the ocean. There are lakhs of Indians waiting to come back. The ticket prices are still astronomical. Government needs to regulate this.
Appreciate the update. The clarification about transit visas via Saudi land route is very helpful for those who are really desperate to return. The 24/7 helpline is a crucial service.
Heartening to read about the support for the fishermen community with dry rations. In times of crisis, it's important we look after our most vulnerable workers abroad. Well done to the community organizations.
The communication from the Embassy is clear, but the process is still very stressful for people on the ground. Hope the expanded schedule from tomorrow brings more certainty. Fingers crossed for everyone waiting.
While the efforts are commendable, I wish there was a special Vande Bharat mission or charter flights arranged for Qatar as well. Relying on a single airline's limited schedule puts too much pressure on people.
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