Kerala CM Vijayan Appeals to PM Modi Over Gulf Flight Shortage Affecting Expatriates
Synopsis
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is urging Prime Minister Modi to take swift action as many Indian expatriates remain stranded in Gulf countries due to flight shortages and rising ticket costs. This situation demands immediate attention for the welfare of those affected.
Key Takeaways
Pinarayi Vijayan has written to PM Modi regarding stranded expatriates.
Flight shortages and high ticket prices are major concerns for returning Indians.
A proposed registration system could assist vulnerable travelers.
State governments need to be informed to facilitate support for returnees.
Exorbitant ticket prices are a significant issue affecting expatriates' travel.
Thiruvananthapuram, March 6 (NationPress) Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting immediate action to help numerous Indian expatriates who are currently stranded in Gulf nations due to a shortage of flights and escalating ticket prices.
In his correspondence, Vijayan outlined the hardships encountered by many Indians, particularly Keralites, who cannot return home because of the restricted number of chartered and scheduled flights available.
The Chief Minister called on the Union Government to promptly liaise with airline companies to restore and enhance flight services from GCC countries to India, especially to priority hubs and Tier-2 cities where many expatriates need to travel.
Highlighting the challenges faced by vulnerable travelers, Vijayan proposed the establishment of a centralized registration system via Indian diplomatic missions or a dedicated online portal.
This system, he argued, would assist authorities in identifying and prioritizing the repatriation of the most vulnerable groups, including the sick, elderly, pregnant women, children, and individuals facing financial difficulties.
Furthermore, he requested that State governments be kept informed about repatriation plans to enable them to facilitate the reception and support required for returning passengers upon their arrival in India.
Another significant concern raised in the letter was the dramatic rise in ticket prices for chartered flights operating between the Gulf Cooperation Council and India.
Vijayan noted that many airline operators are charging exorbitant fares, sometimes several times higher than standard prices, rendering travel unaffordable for numerous expatriates.
He urged the Union Government to intervene and regulate these prices by directly engaging with airline companies to prevent exploitation during this ongoing crisis.
The letter also highlighted the challenges faced by Indians on tourist and visit visas in Gulf countries who need assistance to return home.
Additionally, many Indian travelers utilizing major Gulf airports such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Kuwait as transit points have found themselves stranded mid-journey due to sudden flight cancellations and airspace restrictions.
Vijayan requested the establishment of a dedicated helpline or registration channel specifically for these transit passengers, noting that many lack accommodation, luggage, or local contacts in the countries where they are stranded.
Point of View
This situation underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to assist Indian expatriates stranded abroad. It reflects broader issues of travel accessibility and the responsibilities of both state and federal governments to ensure the welfare of their citizens.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What issue did Kerala CM Vijayan raise with PM Modi?
Kerala CM Vijayan raised the issue of Indian expatriates stranded in Gulf countries due to flight shortages and high ticket prices.
What solution did Vijayan propose for vulnerable travelers?
Vijayan proposed a centralized registration system through Indian diplomatic missions or an online portal to prioritize the repatriation of vulnerable travelers.
How have ticket prices been affected for flights between the Gulf and India?
Ticket prices for chartered flights have surged, with some fares being several times higher than usual, making travel unaffordable for many expatriates.
What specific help did Vijayan request for transit passengers?
He requested a dedicated helpline or registration channel for transit passengers stranded due to flight cancellations.
Why is this situation significant for the Indian government?
It highlights the need for immediate government intervention to ensure the safe return of Indian citizens and address the exploitation of travelers during a crisis.
