Situation in Libya and evacuation of our nationals there
In view of the sharp and unprecedented deterioration in the situation inside Libya, Government has decided to immediately commence evacuation operations for our citizens in that country.
Evacuation is being arranged by sea and air. Government has chartered a passenger ferry with capacity to seat 1200 persons for this purpose. The ship, "Scotia Prince" is already in Egypt and readying for sail to Benghazi which will be the initial focus of the evacuation operations. MEA personnel and medical team will be on board to assist the evacuees.
SCOTIA PRINCE is expected to reach Benghazi by the 27th and bring back at least 1200 persons to Alexandria (Egypt) by 1st March 2011. They would be flown home from Alexandria thereafter, by special Air India flights, which are being arranged.
In Tripoli the focus will be on air evacuation. Aircraft are on stand by for this purpose. Libyan landing clearance is awaited and should be received soon.
Preparations are also in hand for evacuation of our nationals from cities in the interior where air access is possible subject to Libyan clearance.
Indian companies, many of them working in Libya for decades have also offered to work with our Embassy in Tripoli in facilitating evacuation.
Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating closely with other Ministries including Defence, Overseas Indian Affairs and Shipping in making evacuation arrangements.
Round the clock situation rooms in MEA and our Mission in Tripoli are functioning smoothly and addressing queries from families of our citizens in Libya. Our Embassies in Egypt and Tunisia are also alert to the situation and extending all assistance.
New Delhi
24 Feb. 2011