Kashmir parents call for direct flights, smoother border crossings
Srinagar, Mar 17: Anxiety continues to mount among parents in Jammu and Kashmir as the evacuation process of Indian students stranded abroad faces delays, logistical challenges, and what families describe as an inadequate response from the Government of India.
Despite ongoing efforts to bring students back safely, several developments over the past 24 hours have added to the uncertainty.
According to details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a group of 51 students from Golestan has departed towards Armenia as part of the evacuation process. However, many others remain stranded at various transit points, awaiting clearance and further assistance.
The third batch of Indian students returning from Yerevan, Armenia, has been delayed by approximately three hours. Flight FZ718, originally scheduled to depart at 11:25, is operating via Dubai and was expected to reach New Delhi at 9:55 AM. Officials confirmed that the flight is running behind schedule, further prolonging the wait for anxious families back home.
In another development, a separate flight carrying students from Azerbaijan is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi at 3:40 AM on March 17. However, concerns persist regarding students currently stuck in Azerbaijan, where several individuals are facing difficulties in crossing the border. Families allege that the lack of clearances and coordination has left many students in a state of distress.
Parents of the stranded students have expressed deep concern over what they term as a “slow and insufficient evacuation process.” Many have urged the Government of India to step up its efforts and ensure the safe and timely return of all students.
“We are constantly in touch with our children, but the uncertainty is unbearable. The government must act more decisively and ensure that no student is left behind,” said a parent from Pulwama, whose child is currently stranded near the Azerbaijan border.
Another parent from Srinagar echoed similar concerns, stating that the situation demands urgent intervention at the highest level. “There seems to be a lack of coordination. Students are moving from one place to another without clarity. The government should facilitate smooth border crossings and arrange more direct flights,” he said.
Amid these concerns, a positive development has brought some relief to families. A group of 16 students who had earlier arrived in New Delhi has been facilitated by the Jammu and Kashmir Government, which arranged buses for their onward journey. The students have successfully reached Jammu and are currently on their way to Kashmir.
Meanwhile, the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) has acknowledged the support extended by prominent leaders and coordinators during the crisis. The association expressed gratitude to Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi and Nasir Sogami for their continuous efforts in coordinating with authorities and assisting stranded students.
Students who have managed to reach safer locations have also shared their ordeal, describing long waits, uncertain travel routes, and lack of proper information at border points. Many have appealed for better communication and on-ground support to ensure a smoother evacuation process. (KNO)
