Coastal residents in Gulf reassure families as tensions rise; DK helpline receives 10 calls

Mangaluru: “We are safe here. Attacks are not happening everywhere. Civilians are secure. Please be brave.” This is the message many people from the coastal region working in Gulf countries are sending to their families back home.

With Iran’s attacks increasing in parts of the Gulf, relatives in coastal Karnataka are naturally worried and are frequently calling and messaging their loved ones. However, those living in the Gulf have said they are not panicking and are instead consoling their families. On Monday, several of them told Udayavani that they are not facing any immediate danger.

Naveen from Kairangala Vidyanagar, currently in Dubai, said that Iran is mainly targeting US military bases located in Jebel Ali. The company where he works is about five kilometres from the military base. Offices in that area have been given holidays, while work continues as usual in other parts of the city. He said five to six missile attacks took place until 11 am on Sunday and were intercepted. Later, there were no further incidents. However, an oil refinery at the port was hit, causing thick smoke to cover the area on Sunday. He said the refinery is still burning and the smell persists.

Another resident said he woke up to the sound of explosions. He had night duty and heard three more blasts around 9 am on Monday. Security forces are on high alert, and though there is tension, he said they feel safe.

Residents stated that those living in Dubai are not facing major issues, but tourists are more affected as many are stranded at airports.

Except for areas close to military bases, life is normal. Schools have been closed, and work-from-home options have been provided. Shops, malls, metro, bus and taxi services are functioning, Naveen explained.

Roshel, a Mangaluru native working in Bahrain, said they have been given leave and are safe at home. However, his mother keeps calling in fear. He reassured her and said he plans to return home in December for his wedding. He added that attacks are mainly targeting US military bases using missiles and drones, and strong defence systems are in place. He lives about one kilometre from a military base and received an emergency alert on Monday morning.

Rathan Poojary, originally from Mangaluru and currently in Doha, said a missile attack occurred at 7.30 am on Monday but was intercepted. No other attacks were reported. The government has advised people not to step out unless necessary. Schools and government offices are closed, but malls remain open round the clock.

Meanwhile, a woman from Mangaluru working in Tel Aviv said she is spending most of her time in a bunker. She said bomb explosions can be heard from a distance, and sirens go off day and night. She expressed fear and uncertainty but said she continues with faith in God.

Dakshina Kannada helpline receives 10 calls

Following the war between Israel and Iran, the Dakshina Kannada district helpline (0824-2442590) set up to assist those facing problems abroad has received 10 calls. Some callers are tourists stranded in the UAE, including women who are unable to return home. Others are relatives from Mangaluru seeking information about family members in the UAE.

Deputy Commissioner Darshan H V said details of the calls are being forwarded to the Home Department. The state government will coordinate with Indian embassies, and complete information about those who contacted the helpline is being collected.