Urgent: Indian Embassy Advises Immediate Evacuation from Tehran
Published by Living in Tehran Magazine | 15 June 2025
The Embassy of India in Tehran has issued an urgent advisory for all Indian nationals currently in the Iranian capital, recommending immediate relocation from the city using personal resources as the security situation continues to deteriorate. The advisory comes as over 1,500 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir, remain stranded in Iran.
Embassy’s Official Advisory
🚨 Immediate Action Required
“All Indian Nationals and PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin) who can move out of Tehran using their own resources are advised to move to a safe location outside the City.”
– Embassy of India, Tehran (Official X Post)
Critical Situation for Indian Students
The embassy’s advisory comes at a particularly challenging time for the Indian community in Iran, with more than 1,500 students currently stranded in the country. The majority of these students are from the region of Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the geographical concentration of affected individuals.
Student Demographics:
- Total Stranded: Over 1,500 Indian students
- Primary Origin: Jammu and Kashmir region
- Current Status: Unable to leave Iran due to flight suspensions and security concerns
Mandatory Contact Requirements
Registration with Embassy
All Indian nationals currently in Tehran who have not been in contact with the embassy are being urgently requested to establish communication immediately. This registration is critical for the embassy to maintain awareness of Indian citizens’ locations and safety status during the ongoing crisis.
📞 Emergency Contact Numbers
Indian nationals must contact the Embassy immediately:
Information Required:
- Current location details
- Contact telephone numbers
- Number of family members/dependents
- Any special circumstances or medical needs
Evacuation Guidelines
Self-Evacuation Recommendations
The embassy’s guidance emphasises that Indian nationals who possess the financial and logistical means should arrange their own departure from Tehran to safer locations. This self-reliance approach reflects the limited evacuation capabilities available through official channels during the current crisis.
Safe Location Options:
- Alternative Iranian Cities: Areas away from Tehran and military installations
- Border Crossings: Overland routes to neighbouring countries (subject to security conditions)
- Regional Safe Zones: Locations with established Indian community presence
Transportation Challenges
Current Transport Status
The advisory comes as both major Tehran airports remain closed with all commercial flights suspended indefinitely. Indian nationals considering evacuation must rely on alternative transportation methods, primarily overland routes to neighbouring countries.
Available Options:
- Private Vehicle Transport: Self-arranged road transport to borders
- Group Coordination: Coordinating with other Indian nationals for shared transport
- Commercial Bus Services: Where available to border regions
Special Considerations for Students
Academic Concerns
The large number of stranded students presents unique challenges, including:
- Academic year disruption and examination schedules
- Student visa status and legal compliance issues
- Financial constraints limiting self-evacuation options
- Accommodation and living arrangements during extended stay
Family Communication
Students are particularly advised to maintain regular contact with families in India and the embassy to ensure coordinated support efforts.
Embassy Services and Limitations
Available Assistance
While encouraging self-evacuation, the embassy continues to provide:
- Regular safety updates and advisories
- Coordination with Indian authorities for potential official evacuation
- Emergency contact services for critical situations
- Liaison with local Iranian authorities
Service Limitations
Indian nationals should be aware that embassy evacuation capabilities are severely constrained during active conflict, and personal resources remain the most viable option for immediate safety.
Living in Tehran’s Analysis
The Indian embassy’s advisory reflects the deteriorating security environment in Tehran and the practical challenges facing one of Iran’s largest expatriate communities. The emphasis on self-evacuation indicates the realistic limitations of diplomatic evacuation during active military operations.
Key Takeaways for Indian Community:
- Immediate Action: Those with means should consider leaving Tehran promptly
- Stay Connected: Maintain contact with embassy regardless of evacuation plans
- Resource Pooling: Indian nationals may benefit from coordinating evacuation efforts
- Safety First: Prioritise personal safety over material possessions or academic concerns
The situation remains highly fluid, and Indian nationals should monitor official embassy communications closely for updated guidance and potential changes in evacuation procedures.
Living in Tehran Magazine continues to monitor developments affecting the international community in Iran. For immediate assistance, Indian nationals should contact the Embassy of India directly using the provided emergency numbers.