CM Fadnavis Calls on Stranded Maharashtra Citizens to Use Official Channels and Helpline
Synopsis
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has made a crucial appeal to Maharashtra citizens stranded in the UAE to stay updated via official channels and utilize government helplines for assistance as efforts to return them home intensify.
Key Takeaways
CM Devendra Fadnavis urges stranded citizens to follow official channels.
Government helpline and contact details provided for assistance.
WhatsApp number established for further support.
Efforts to ensure the safe return of stranded citizens are ongoing.
Community reassured by the Government of India’s support.
Mumbai, March 4 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated his appeal to the citizens of Maharashtra who are currently stranded in the UAE, urging them to stay updated exclusively through the official channels of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Indian consulate in Dubai, while also reaching out to the government helpline.
This statement from the CM came late Tuesday night, following an earlier message in the morning, as the government intensifies its efforts to facilitate the return of those trapped abroad.
In a post shared on X, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) stated, “In light of the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the consulate general in Dubai are actively communicating with representatives of the Indian community, including those from Maharashtra. The latest outreach from the Embassy indicates that the Ministry of External Affairs is vigilantly monitoring the developing circumstances. The community is assured that there is no need for panic, as the Government of India is fully committed to supporting them.”
Furthermore, the CMO emphasized, “All individuals from Maharashtra currently in the UAE are strongly encouraged to follow updates solely from the verified accounts of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi and Indian consulate in Dubai, found on: Abu Dhabi: @IndembAbuDhabi and Dubai: @cgidubai. Additionally, those in need can reach out to the Embassy or Consulate via the following contact details: Toll-free number: 800-4634.2. WhatsApp: +971543090571. Email: pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in and ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in.”
In collaboration with the Indian People’s Forum in Dubai, the Maharashtra Government has also set up a WhatsApp number for assistance: WhatsApp Number: +97150 365 4357.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who coordinated the arrangement of two aircraft for the return of stranded citizens, posted on X, stating, “Shiv Sena has successfully facilitated the return of many Maharashtra citizens stranded in Dubai. The passengers who departed from Fujairah Airport safely returned to Mumbai on Tuesday night. This ‘homecoming’ was made possible through the cooperation of our esteemed Prime Minister @narendramodi and steadfast Home Minister @AmitShah.”
He concluded with, “It brings immense satisfaction and joy that we have managed to provide relief to the citizens of Maharashtra who were in distress and their families who faced significant mental anguish.”
Point of View
The government demonstrates a commitment to transparency and support during this challenging time.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What should stranded citizens do for updates?
Stranded citizens are advised to follow updates solely from the official handles of the Indian embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Indian consulate in Dubai.
How can citizens contact the government for assistance?
Citizens can reach out to the government through the toll-free number 800-4634.2, WhatsApp at +971543090571, or via email at pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in and ca.abudhabi@mea.gov.in.
Is there a WhatsApp number for assistance?
Yes, the Maharashtra Government has set up a WhatsApp number for assistance: +97150 365 4357.
What actions are being taken to facilitate the return of stranded citizens?
The Maharashtra government has arranged for two aircraft to facilitate the return of stranded citizens from the UAE.
Who is overseeing the situation for the Indian community?
The Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring the evolving situation and is in touch with representatives of the Indian community.
