Lucknow: Escalating tensions in the Gulf region amid the conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States has left thousands of migrant workers from eastern Uttar Pradesh stranded, forcing many to spend nights in bunkers.Workers from Basti, Gorakhpur, Deoria and Maharajganj districts, many of whom are employed in construction, transport and service sectors in the Gulf countries, said the sound of fighter jets and air raid sirens echoed throughout the night, creating an atmosphere of tension and fear.Officials said a recent survey indicated that nearly 5,000 workers from Kushinagar district alone were currently employed in various Gulf countries.Many workers are unable to return as several international flights have been cancelled due to security concerns.Islam, a resident of Sari Khurd village area of Kushinagar, who has been working in Saudi Arabia for the past five years missed his daughter’s wedding.Speaking to his family over the phone, Islam said many workers were forced to stay inside bunkers for safety, as explosions and missile interceptions could be seen in nearby areas. He booked a ticket to return home during Eid, but the escalation led to flight cancellations.His wife Zohra Khatoon and son Ishtiyaq said the family was deeply worried about Islam’s safety and awaited his return.Similarly, Sarvesh Kumar Sharma of Parsouni Khurd village in Kushinagar, who has been working with a construction company in Jeddah for the past three years, secured leave to return home for Holi and had to return to India on March 2, but the journey was cancelled due to the conflict.Sarvesh told his family that the roar of fighter aircraft could be heard day and night. “Missile attacks and explosions are on, and many workers are being shifted to bunkers for safety,” he said.Ramesh Yadav, a resident of Bhatni area of Deoria district works in a transport firm in the UAE. He informed his family that workers had been advised to avoid unnecessary movement outside labour camps. His parents remain glued to news channels to track latest developments.Likewise, Shah Alam, a worker from Basti who is employed in a maintenance company in Qatar, said that heightened security alerts had been issued, and expatriate workers had been asked to remain indoors.Families of migrant workers said they were relying on phone calls and video chats to stay connected with their loved ones.They urged the govt to take diplomatic steps to facilitate safe evacuation of Indian workers.
