NT Reporter
Margao
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, members of the Goan community working in Gulf countries are maintaining close contact with each other and with the state NRI Commission while adhering to safety advisories issued by authorities and embassies.
A large number of Goans are employed in the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Following the outbreak of the Israel–Iran conflict last week, the Government of India has advised its nationals to avoid unnecessary travel, remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities and Indian missions.
Airspace across parts of the region has been closed or operating under restrictions, affecting flight movements. Residents have also reported receiving emergency alerts on their phones warning of missile threats and directing them to seek shelter. However, supermarkets and essential services continue to function.
Simon D’Silva, president of the Goan Welfare Association, Qatar, said the community is largely safe and complying with advisories. He said most offices and schools are closed, with many working remotely, and banks
that were shut have partially
reopened.
D’Silva said the NRI Commissioner in Goa is in constant contact with Goan associations across the region. He said communication through phone and internet platforms has enabled community members to stay connected and updated with embassy advisories. He appealed to people in Goa to pray for de-escalation of the situation.
Dubai saw limited resumption of flights. There was much relief for the stranded Indians as some flights operated from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru on Tuesday, according to news reports. Locals in Goa are in touch with their family members in the Gulf region from the day Iran’s air strikes began causing much anxiety among them.
