The Indian government is “likely” to arrange a ship to evacuate 200 of its nationals stranded in Maldives due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

Citing the Indian High Commission in Maldives, an English newspaper publication from India, Deccan Herald reported that the 200 Indian nationals will be evacuated via the ship to Cochin, Kerala State.

It has not been disclosed when this operation will take place, however, Deccan Herald reported that it will be done, “within a week”.

The High Commission is to have noted that evacuees that are ferried to Cochin will be quarantined for at 14 days before they are allowed to return to their respective destinations. This will be done in accordance with the policy and directions of the Kerala government regarding movement in and out of the state.

These Indian nationals have been stranded in the Maldives due to restrictions on international travel in both countries, provoked by the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the evacuation process, priority will be given to pregnant women, elderly, children, stranded tourist and workers who lost their jobs as well as those with compelling grounds such as medical or a death in the family.

RaajjeMV was unable to get a comment from the High Commission of India in the Maldives at the time of publishing. The authenticity of this information is yet to be verified by relevant authorities.