‘Worried, helpless’: Mirzapur village awaits safe return of 22 pilgrims stuck in Saudi Arabia

In the Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh, villagers in the Bani village are anxiously awaiting the safe return of 22 pilgrims stuck in Saudi Arabia due to Saudi airlines suspending flights out of concern over security issues and airspace disruptions in the Middle East. The pilgrims, including three elderly couples, were scheduled to return home on October 22, but the suspension of flights has left them stranded in Mecca and Medina.

The families of the stranded pilgrims expressed their helplessness and worry as they attempt to secure the safe return of their loved ones. Moharram Ali, 45, whose parents Sohrab Ali and Badrun Nisha are among the stranded pilgrims, shared that his parents are calling him frequently, seeking reassurance about their situation. The family is hopeful that flights will resume soon, but they are unsure when that may happen.

Mobin Khan, whose parents Nizamuddin and Abartum, are among the stranded pilgrims, recounted the financial burden caused by the travel agent who charged Rs 70,000 per person for accommodation and meals. However, after the scheduled return date was changed multiple times, the agent stopped bearing the costs of their stay and meals.

The uncertainty has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey for many of the pilgrims. Ashraf Ali and Chand Tara, for example, spent two months preparing for the pilgrimage, but they are now anxious and helpless as they face the possibility of being stranded in Saudi Arabia for an extended period. The pilgrims were not carrying mobile phones, relying on fellow travelers to stay in touch with their families back home.