Around 60 Indian passengers experienced a harrowing ordeal after their Gulf Air flight from Mumbai to Manchester was diverted to Kuwait International Airport due to a technical issue. The passengers found themselves stranded at the airport for over 13 hours on Sunday, facing discomfort and lack of basic assistance from the airline.
The stranded passengers, aboard Gulf Air flight GF 005, complained about inadequate provisions such as food, accommodation, and support during their extended wait. Their frustration grew as they realized the airline failed to provide any substantial aid amidst the unexpected delay. Their situation escalated when they took to social media to voice their grievances, ultimately prompting a response from the Indian Embassy in Kuwait.
The embassy swiftly addressed the situation, assuring stranded passengers that food and water were available at airport lounges. They also confirmed that Gulf Air had tentatively scheduled the flight to Manchester for 3:30 am on Monday, December 2nd, informing all passengers about the updated schedule. An embassy team was dispatched to the airport to assist the passengers and coordinate with the airline, ensuring their well-being during this stressful time.
The Indian Embassy provided two airport lounges for the stranded passengers as temporary accommodation. The passengers were grateful for the embassy's swift action and support in addressing their needs during this difficult situation.
"After we raised the issue on social media, senior officials from the Indian Embassy in Kuwait reached out to the Indian passengers stuck at the airport," shared Arzoo Singh, one of the stranded passengers travelling from Mumbai to Manchester. This intervention demonstrated the embassy's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad.
However, some passengers, like Shivansh, expressed their disappointment with the lack of support received compared to other nationalities. "Reading Why Bharat Matters while getting stuck in Kuwait without any help," he tweeted, highlighting the disparity in treatment. He further stated that British passport holders had been provided with hotels and on-arrival visas, while Indian passengers faced confusion, lack of information, food, or assistance.
Following these concerns, Gulf Air finally departed from Kuwait at 4:34 am local time on Monday, carrying the stranded Indian passengers among others to Manchester. The Indian Embassy team remained present at the airport until the flight's departure, ensuring a smooth and safe journey for the passengers.
