The Meghalaya government has detailed special flights to evacuate students and civilians from violence-hit Manipur.
The office of the Chief Minister in a press statement today said with special flights the state will fly 50 students from the Agriculture University, 10 students from Food Technology Institute, 25 members of the Lajong football team, and others.
“The Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the PMO, Ministry of Home Affairs, DG Assam Rifles, Ministry of Civil Aviation, and private airlines, took all essential safety precautions to guarantee the passengers’ safety throughout flight,” the office said
As of Friday noon, more than 25 citizens are on the way to Meghalaya via Guwahati through different flights. Along with flights, special buses are bringing over 60 students to Meghalaya.
Meanwhile the state has also launched a helpline for citizens who may require further assistance. The helpline number is 1800-345-3644.
Students of agriculture and food technology as well as medical students can reach out to the Nodal Officer, Remdor Dkhar (+91 98631 14387) and Dr. Paul Chyne (9863089972).
A delegation of three officials led by cabinet minister Dr. Ampareen M Lyngdoh, Daniel Thangkiew (Political Secretary & OSD to Chief Minister) and West Garo Hills SP Dr. Viveknanda Singh Rathore have travelled to Imphal to support the evacuation process.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, “We are bringing back our stranded citizens through regular flights and chartered flights with special permission, who wish to return to Meghalaya. The Lajong football team has already been escorted to the airport, and we are making every effort to ensure the safe and timely return of all our citizens.”
He also urged students and their parents not to panic. “We are working closely with the Union and State governments, security agencies to ensure that all necessary arrangements are made for the safe return of our students and citizens.”