Among massive combat between Afghan forces and the Taliban, the Indian government has determined to vacate its citizens who are in and around Mazar-e-Sharif.
A special flight has been set up from Mazar-e-Sharif to Delhi that will leave on Tuesday evening.
“A particular flight is leaving from Mazar-e-Sharif to New Delhi. Any Indian nationals in and around Mazar-e-Sharif are ordered to leave for India in the special flight planned to depart late today evening,” the Indian consulate wrote on Twitter.
Those who desire to leave are sought to immediately convey their full name, passport number and date of expiry via Whatsapp at — 0785891303, 0785891301.
Anyhow, news agency PTI reported that the consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif will continue to operate through the local staff members.
A month ago, due to the deteriorating security situation, the Taliban took control of new areas around the southern Afghan city and India withdrew some 50 diplomats and security personnel from its consulate in Kandahar.
A special Indian Air Force aircraft was dispatched on 10 July to bring back diplomats, officials and other personnel from India, including a group of Indian-Tibet border policemen.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi stated that Indian personnel have been temporarily returned due to fierce fighting.
“The safety of our staff is the most important. The Indian Consulate General in Kandahar has not yet been closed. However, due to the fierce fighting near Kandahar, the Indian personnel have temporarily returned,” Bagchi said.
Last week, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in the People’s Chamber that India remains vigilant and is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Indians in this conflict-ridden country.
Since the United States began withdrawing its troops on May 1, the Taliban have moved rapidly in Afghanistan, resorting to widespread violence.
The United States has withdrawn most of its troops and is expected to complete the reduction before August 31.
