Indian naval ship Shardul will today evacuate several Indian citizens from the port of Bandar Abbas in Iran under the next phase of its operation Samudra Setu. The Indian mission in Iran has facilitated the evacuatation and embarkation of the citizens after requisite medical screening. They will be brought to Porbandar port in Gujarat.

The Indian navy had launched Operation Samudra Setu to repatriate Indian citizens on May 8 and so far naval ships Jalashwa and Magar have already evacuated 2874 personnel from Maldives and Sri Lanka to the ports of Kochi and Tuticorin.

Covid-related social distancing norms have been catered onboard INS Shardul too and the ship has been specially provisioned for the evacuation operation, including embarkation of additional medical staff, doctors, hygienists, nutritionists, medical stores, rations, personal protective equipment, face-masks, lifesaving gear, etc.

In addition to authorized medical outfit, medical equipment specific to dealing with Covid-19 including innovative products developed by the Indian Navy during the ongoing crisis is also being carried onboard.

The evacuated personnel would be provided the basic amenities and medical facilities whilst undertaking the sea passage to Porbandar. Special isolation compartments have also been earmarked for any contingencies. In view of the unique challenges associated with Covid-19 including asymptomatic carriers, stringent protocols are being stipulated during the passage.

After disembarkation at Porbandar, the evacuated personnel will be entrusted to the care of state authorities..