Air India and IndiGo Rescue Mission Bangladesh

Air India and IndiGo Flights Rescue Over 400 People from Dhaka

New Delhi: Amid escalating political unrest in Bangladesh, Air India and IndiGo conducted special flights to evacuate more than 400 people from Dhaka. The neighboring country plunged into uncertainty after street protests over job quotas forced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee.

Air India Evacuation Flight

On Wednesday morning, a special Air India flight successfully brought 205 people, including six infants, from Dhaka to New Delhi. The flight, chartered at very short notice, departed the Indian capital on Tuesday night and faced significant infrastructure challenges at Dhaka airport.

An official involved in the operation stated, “Despite the temporary closure of Dhaka airport and logistical hurdles, we managed to operate the flight using an A321 neo aircraft. The flight brought back 199 adults and six infants safely to New Delhi.”

IndiGo’s Special Operation

IndiGo also played a crucial role in the evacuation, operating a special flight from Dhaka to Kolkata on Tuesday. According to an airline statement, this flight was specifically arranged to bring back Indian nationals from Bangladesh amidst the volatile situation in the capital.

A source familiar with the matter revealed that the IndiGo special flight carried over 200 passengers. The airline assured affected customers of alternative travel arrangements and provided timely updates. IndiGo maintains daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai to Dhaka, and two daily services from Kolkata.

Resumption of Normal Operations

Following the evacuation efforts, both airlines announced the resumption of their regular flight schedules between India and Dhaka. Air India will restart its scheduled operations with two daily flights from New Delhi to Dhaka. Despite canceling its morning flight on Tuesday, Air India operated an evening flight to Dhaka and plans to continue regular services.

Similarly, IndiGo confirmed that normal operations between India and Dhaka are set to resume on Wednesday. The airline communicated with all affected passengers, offering updates and alternate travel plans to ensure minimal disruption.

Vistara’s Scheduled Services

Vistara, another key player in the evacuation efforts, announced it would continue operating its scheduled services to Dhaka. The airline provides daily flights from Mumbai and three weekly services from New Delhi to the Bangladeshi capital. Vistara had also canceled its flights to Dhaka on Tuesday but is set to resume normal operations promptly.

Political Turmoil in Bangladesh

The need for these emergency evacuations arose due to the sudden political crisis in Bangladesh. Mass protests over job quotas led to violent clashes and widespread unrest. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, facing immense pressure from the public and opposition, ultimately resigned and fled the country. This political upheaval resulted in the temporary closure of Dhaka airport and significant disruptions in daily life.

Coordinated Efforts for Safe Evacuation

The coordinated efforts of Air India and IndiGo highlight the commitment of Indian airlines to the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad. By operating these special flights under challenging circumstances, they ensured the safe return of over 400 people.

Border Security Force (BSF) personnel Monday rescued a group of Customs and immigration officials posted at Benapole border in Bangladesh and offered them shelter in the no man’s land for some time after protesters attacked their offices and attempted to vandalise a mural of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The same day, at least 100 Indian drivers and helpers of goods vehicles, who were stuck at Benapole, were rescued by BSF personnel at the Petrapole integrated check post.

Conclusion

The swift and effective response by Air India and IndiGo in evacuating stranded individuals from Dhaka underscores the critical role of airlines in crisis situations. As normal operations resume, the focus remains on providing safe and reliable travel options for all passengers. The political situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve, and the international community closely monitors developments.

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