Source: UNI
NEW DELHI, INDIA, September 19, 2001: With India virtually confirming the death of about 250 of its citizens and people of Indian origin, in the September 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, the government today announced that Air India will provide free transportation of their ashes or mortal remains to Delhi and Mumbai. Similarly, the Indian Airlines will provide free onward transportation of the mortal remains up to the airport nearest to the native place of the deceased, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Nirupama Rao said here today. Facilitation counters will operate at International Airports at Delhi and Mumbai to ensure that the bodies or ashes are cleared promptly and smoothly. All passport-issuing authorities have been instructed to issue travel documents immediately without levying “tatkal” charges on the relatives of the injured, deceased or missing persons. The Indian Railways will also provide all assistance.