In a series of tweets, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday said, “South Sudan – I am aware of the developments in South Sudan.
We are planning evacuation of Indian nationals. Please register yourself with Indian Embassy and do not panic. Indian nationals are advised not to travel to South Sudan.”
In its latest advisory, the MEA has said that Indian nationals desirous of departing for South Sudan may kindly register themselves at the email ID controlroomjuba@gmail.com.
“It is important to have exact number of Indian nationals, seeking facility of evacuation, to make arrangements. Please be brief,” the advisory on assistance for Indian nationals in South Sudan said.
If there is no Internet facility, please text to +211955589611, +211925502025, +211956942720, +211955318587, it added.
“The security situation in Juba, the capital of South Sudan, has deteriorated since July 7, 2016. We have reports of gunfire and fighting on the streets of Juba making any movement virtually impossible, “ the advisory stated.
It added: “Ministry of External Affairs advises all Indian nationals against all travel to South Sudan till situation improves.”
On Sunday, the Indian embassy in South Sudan had asked Indians stranded there to stay calm, assuring them that they were in constant touch with the authorities in India and all options were being considered to provide relief to them amid heavy fighting between South Sudan’s army and former rebels.
“The Indian embassy is in regular touch with the authorities concerned in India and all options are being considered for providing relief to Indians stranded here in Juba. All are requested to keep calm and await further development and further inputs from the embassy,” it said.
According to official data, there are a few hundred Indians in South Sudan. Some of them have set up businesses in Juba and others are working for various companies. A small number of Indians work in Christian missionary organisations in that country.
South Sudan’s capital is witnessing heavy fighting due to clashes between former rebels and government soldiers in several parts of the city.