As the situation in war-torn Sudan worsens after nearly ten days of fighting between the country’s army and paramilitary forces, two Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft are on standby in Jeddah, while INS Sumedha has also arrived in Port Sudan to evacuate Indians.
Official sources stated the government is making all efforts to assure the safety and security of Indians stuck in Sudan, and that as part of preparations and in order to move quickly, the administration is considering different options. “We are closely monitoring Sudan’s complex and evolving security situation.” “We are also working closely with various partners to ensure the safe movement of Indians who are stranded in Sudan and want to be evacuated,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Sunday.
It also stated that contingency plans are in place, but that any movement on the ground would be contingent on the security situation, which remains volatile, with reports of severe fighting in numerous areas throughout Khartoum. Sudanese airspace is currently banned for all foreign aircraft, the statement continued, adding that “overland movement also poses risks and logistical challenges.”
According to official sources, the Indian embassy is in frequent contact with the stranded Indians in Sudan, advising them on the practicality of safe migration and the importance of avoiding excessive risk.”It is also coordinating all possible assistance, including possible exit from Khartoum city as and when the security situation permits safe movement,” added a source.