Indian associations in Bahrain organise chartered flights to India

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

In a strong show of community support, Indian associations in Bahrain - Kannada Sangha Bahrain, Bahrain Keraleeya Samajham, Nav Bharat, and the Indian Club Bahrain - have begun organizing chartered flights to India in collaboration with Gulf Air, with the initiative receiving an overwhelming response from Indian residents.

Bahrain Keraleeya Samajam has announced a chartered flight from Dammam to Kochi on March 14 or 15. The BD300 ticket includes transit visa charges and transportation from Bahrain to Dammam.

Transport

Similarly, Kannada Sangha Bahrain has arranged a flight from Dammam to Mumbai on March 16, with a BD280 ticket covering bus transport to Dammam and the Saudi transit visa.

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Ajith Bangera, President of Kannada Sangha Bahrain, said, “During COVID, Kannada Sangha provided shelter homes and food. This time we are arranging flights as our contribution to the community.”

The organization has received around 400 bookings and is considering a second round of flights. Nav Bharat has seen a surge in interest, receiving more than 500 inquiries, well above the expected 250, with 230 passengers registered so far.

Pregnant women, children, and the elderly are being given priority. Dammam to Mumbai flight priced at BD 280 is planned for March 16.

Highlighting logistical challenges, Indian Club Bahrain President Mr. Joseph told The Daily Tribune: “The challenge is that so far only one flight has been allocated from Dammam to Chennai on March 20 at BD325, despite the overwhelming demand and response. The Chennai flight is fully booked, while requests for Delhi, Hyderabad, and Kerala flights are under consideration.”

Sentiment

Reflecting the sentiment of many expats, Shaaji Palliyath, a long-time resident, said: “I have been in Bahrain for 28 years. Nothing matters more than the safety of my family, especially my children. I am confident Bahrain will overcome this challenge, hoping to be back soon.”

Organizers stressed that the initiative is primarily a community service effort, with minimal margins involved.