New Delhi: As part of Indian Navy’s Operation Samudra Setu programme, Indian Naval Ship Shardul on Monday commenced repatriation of Indian nationals at port of Bandar Abbas in Iran to Porbandar in Gujarat.
“Indian Navy had launched Operation Samudra Setu to repatriate Indian citizens commencing May 8. Indian Naval ships Jalashwa and Magar have already evacuated 2874 personnel from Maldives and Sri Lanka to ports of Kochi and Tuticorin,” Indian Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said in a statement.
The Indian Mission in Iran has prepared a list of Indian citizens to be evacuated and will facilitate their embarkation after requisite medical screening.
COVID-related social distancing norms have been catered onboard INS Shardul and the ship has been specially provisioned for the evacuation operation, including embarkation of additional medical staff, doctors, hygienists, nutritionists, medical stores, rations, personal protective equipment, face-masks, lifesaving gear, he added.
In addition to authorised medical outfit, medical equipment specific to dealing with COVID-19 including innovative products developed by the Indian Navy during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis is also being carried onboard.
The returnee would be provided the basic amenities and medical facilities whilst undertaking the sea-passage to Porbandar.
Special isolation compartments have also been earmarked for any contingencies. In view of the unique challenges associated with COVID-19 including asymptomatic carriers, stringent protocols are being stipulated during the passage.
After disembarkation at Porbandar, the repatriated personnel will be entrusted to the care of State authorities.
