First evacuation flight from Iran to depart tomorrow as airspace reopens

Srinagar, Jan 15: As Iran has reopened its airspace for civilian traffic following a temporary closure amid rising tensions, the first evacuation flight carrying Indian nationals is scheduled to depart from Tehran to Delhi on Friday, bringing major relief to students and families in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to information shared by the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, all students have been duly registered and their personal details and passports have already been collected by the Indian Embassy in Iran. The first batch of students has been instructed to remain ready by 8:00 AM for onward evacuation.

The association said it is most likely that students from Golestan University and a few students from SBUMS and TUMS will be part of the first evacuation batch scheduled to arrive in Delhi tomorrow. The final passenger list is expected to be shared later tonight once it is formally confirmed by the authorities.

Student bodies said the reopening of airspace and commencement of evacuation flights has eased widespread anxiety among students and their families, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where parents have been under severe stress due to the deteriorating security situation in Iran.

The evacuation process is being coordinated by Indian authorities in close liaison with the Embassy, with further flights expected in the coming days to ensure the safe return of all remaining students.

Families and student representatives expressed hope that the evacuation operation will continue smoothly and safely until every stranded student is brought back home. [KNT]