NRI helpline steps in to aid stranded Kannadigas in UAE

Mangaluru: The adigas Helpline team, led by NRI businessman and philanthropist Ronald Colaco, organised an online meeting on Sunday to discuss the current situation in the UAE and gather information about stranded tourists from Karnataka. The team also resolved to share the information with the state govt to facilitate assistance.Karnataka NRI Forum president Praveen Shetty assured that all Non-Resident Kannadigas in the UAE are safe and that the UAE govt is taking adequate measures to ensure the safety of all residents. He urged Kannadigas not to panic or spread unverified or misleading information on social media.He said the UAE remains one of the safest countries and expressed confidence that the situation would return to normal soon. He also appealed to everyone to cooperate with and follow the guidelines issued by the UAE authorities.Ronald Colaco said he was willing to manage the expenses required for emergency arrangements for tourists currently facing difficulties. He also urged the Karnataka govt to announce emergency financial assistance to support stranded Kannadigas.MLC SL Bhojegowda, who is currently stranded in Dubai, said the situation is expected to stabilise soon. He urged minister Krishna Byre Gowda to announce an emergency relief fund of Rs 2 crore to assist stranded Kannadigas. The minister assured that he would discuss the matter with the CM and take necessary action.MLC Arathi Krishna said she is in constant touch with Indian embassies across the UAE and Gulf countries, as well as with Non-Resident Kannadigas, and is sharing regular updates with the Karnataka govt. She also assured full support to the Kannadigas Helpline initiative.Hidayath Adhoor, coordinator of Kannadigas Helpline and president of BCCI UAE, said the team has been meeting stranded Kannadigas and providing necessary support. He assured that the helpline would also facilitate medical assistance for those in need until they are able to return home safely.Karnataka Sangha Dubai president Shashidhar Nagarajappa said stranded Kannadigas in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, or other places can contact the Kannadigas Helpline team, which is actively reaching out and providing assistance.