Gulf Air Flight Cancellation: Ambassador’s Intervention Sought

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

An association of expatriates from Calicut in India, named Kozhikode Jilla Pravasi Forum (KPF), has filed a representation to the Ambassador of India to Bahrain, His Excellency Vinod K. Jacob, to address the pressing issue of Gulf Air’s decision to discontinue flights to Calicut and to reduce services to Kochi.

The appeal was made during a formal meeting held at the Indian Embassy, where KPF representatives submitted a representation requesting intervention to restore these crucial routes.

The delegation, comprising newly elected office bearers, highlighted the severe inconvenience caused to the Indian expatriate community by the cancellation of these flights. Among those in attendance were Sudheer Thirunilath (President), Arun Prakash (General Secretary), Jamal Kuttikkattil (Patron), Akhil Thamarassery (Vice President), Sudhi Chathoth (Sports Wing Convener), and Sajna Sanoop (Ladies Wing Convener). Ravi Jain, Second Secretary, HOC, and CW at the embassy, also participated in the discussions. Flights between Bahrain and Calicut historically served as a vital link for the Indian expatriate community, with Gulf Air previously operating multiple weekly flights. These routes had high occupancy rates, reflecting their importance to workers and families travelling between the two regions.

Delay in Police Verification

In addition to the flight cancellations, the KPF delegation raised concerns about prolonged delays in police verification for passport renewals, which they noted was causing undue stress to expatriates. Labour issues faced by Indian workers in Bahrain were also a key focus, with the forum seeking the Embassy’s support in resolving these challenges.

The meeting also provided an opportunity for KPF to brief the Ambassador on its ongoing activities and initiatives aimed at supporting the community.