Coronavirus: Jobless man, pregnant wife forced to stay in Dubai parking lot
Dubai: Indian couple Pradeep Kumar and his 32-week pregnant wife Premalatha are living in the constant fear of having to return to the parking lot where they had spent days after losing their jobs and accommodation.
The couple hails from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Kumar worked at a hotel in Dubai and Premalatha at a private firm. Due to the impact of Covid-19 pandemic, both lost their jobs in March. Kumar’s employment visa was cancelled and Premalatha’s visa expires in June.
Since the couple couldn’t afford to pay rent, they were dislodged from their flat and forced to spend days in the underground parking lot. Luckily, a well-wisher offered them temporary accommodation. But with no flight to Tamil Nadu in Phase-2 of Vande Bharat Mission, the couple is assailed by the looming fear of returning to the same parking lot – a nightmare that haunts them.
“Those few days were terrible. It was our worst time ever. Unfortunately, Premalatha had an abortion once. The doctor said there is a threat now too. She has type-2 diabetes. She lost her job because she fainted too often and has a poor health condition. I lost my job but without settlement of my final dues. We are in a deplorable state,” Kumar said.
Without job and money to sustain themselves, the couple is fighting against all odds for survival and wants immediate evacuation.
“We have spent more than a year in Dubai. But can’t carry on like this. I can’t afford to pay for her medical needs and basic necessities.
We approached Consulate General of India in April end when her situation worsened. We didn’t make it to priority list for flight to Chennai. The doctor had once given a certificate for air travel but that has expired. Now we hope to land anywhere in Kerala and hopefully reach Chennai from there. Our condition is dismal. We need help,” he said, as his voice trailed off.
The couple hopes for support from Dubai Consulate and community groups to get the air tickets for their return.