Keralites in Iran and Israel Safe Amidst Tensions; Norka Roots and MEA Intensify Coordination
Thiruvananthapuram: Keralites residing in Iran and Israel are currently safe, confirmed Ajith Kolassery, CEO of Norka Roots. He stated that while the situation remains critical in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Tehran, Iran, Malayalis in both countries have shared accounts of surviving recent missile attacks.
In Iran, 12 Keralite MBBS students studying at Kerman University of Medical Sciences, along with a group of Keralite business travelers who went to Tehran, have been in contact with Norka. The students are presently secure in their dormitories. Their details have been communicated to the Indian Embassy in Tehran through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The business group has safely relocated from Tehran to Yazd, a journey of approximately 10 hours, with the assistance of local Iranians. Kolassery added that the MEA and the Indian Embassy have initiated steps to move Indian students and citizens from Iran to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, by road.
Norka Roots has also spoken with Malayalis in Israel, including members of the Lok Kerala Sabha there. While missile attacks occurred during the night, all of them are now safe. It is understood that due to existing emergency protocols, they are secure in bunkers associated with their apartments. Keralites in Israel include caregivers, paramedical staff, nurses, and students.
In light of the Iran-Israel conflict, the Ministry of External Affairs has established a call center to provide assistance. Help desks are also operational at the Indian Embassies in Tehran and Tel Aviv. The Norka CEO confirmed that Norka’s call center is also fully prepared to assist.
Helpline Numbers for Ministry of External Affairs Control Room:
1800118797 (Toll free)
+911123012113
+911123014104
+911123017905
+919968291988 (Whatsapp)
E-mail: situationroom@mea.gov.in