Gandhinagar: Timely intervention by the Gujarat government has helped Dr. Amin Sama, an assistant professor from Bhuj in Kutch, return home safely after being stranded for nearly a month in Goma city of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Dr. Sama, a faculty member at Shri R.R. Lalan College, had travelled to Rwanda on May 15 and later entered Goma in the DRC to meet a childhood friend before proceeding to Tanzania. However, just two days later, Rwanda closed its border with the DRC amid concerns over a possible Ebola outbreak, leaving him stranded and forcing him to miss his scheduled flight to India on May 31.

Seeking assistance, Dr. Sama approached the office of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. Following this, the Gujarat State Non-Resident Gujarati Foundation (NSGF), under the General Administration Department, took up the matter and coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian diplomatic missions.

On June 10, representations were sent to officials in New Delhi and the Indian embassies handling Rwanda and the DRC. Foundation officials remained in constant touch with Dr. Sama, the MEA and embassy authorities to facilitate the required permissions and clearances.

Dr. Sama informed authorities that he had not visited any Ebola-affected area and was willing to undergo all necessary medical tests, quarantine procedures and immigration checks.

As his rescheduled flight on June 18 approached, efforts were intensified. On June 17, he received all necessary transit and travel clearances, clearing the way for his return to India.

Expressing gratitude after receiving the approval, Dr. Sama thanked the Gujarat government, the NSGF, the MEA and Indian diplomatic missions for their support during the difficult situation.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the Gujarat government remains committed to assisting Gujaratis and Indian citizens facing difficulties abroad. The NSGF also reiterated its commitment to providing guidance and support to citizens during emergencies overseas. DeshGujarat