First Hajj flight to operate from Srinagar Airport on July 25

Farooq Andrabi reviews arrangements

 SRINAGAR. JULY 19: Minister of State for Hajj & Auqaf Farooq Ahmad Andrabi today said the Government is committed to provide quality services to the pilgrims performing Hajj-2017.

The Minister made these remarks at an interaction with Khuddam-ul-Hujaj at Hajj House here.

During the meeting, the Minister said that Government is committed to provide quality services to the pilgrims and has directed the concerned officials to ensure best possible facilities for the prospective Hajis.

The meeting was informed that the State Hajj Committee has introduced jackets and flags for Khuddam-ul-Hujaj, so that they could easily be identified by J&K's pilgrims. It was further revealed that the attendants will lead a group of 200 pilgrims each.

The Minister was informed that for current year allotted quota of pilgrims going for Hajj is 8050. It was further revealed that the first batch of pilgrims will depart on July 25 and that two flights carrying 420 Hajj pilgrims each would fly directly to Saudi Arabia every day.

Officials said the scheduled timing for departure of flights would be  9 am and 11.35 am, while the return flight would arrive in Valley on September 7th.

The Minister informed that high end vehicles with sophisticated technology would be made available for the pilgrims to carry them from Hajj house to airport. Besides the department has also published brochures which contain Hajj related information.

The Minister said that the SHC has installed three foreign exchange counters and an accidental insurance policy has been made for every pilgrim. Besides personal identification cards will be given to pilgrims that contain their identification information and Hajj Commission helpline numbers, so that they have hassle free journey.  

The Minister directed attendants to assist in looking after the welfare of Hajj pilgrims in an organized manner and guide the pilgrims during their journey and stay in Saudi Arabia. He also added that they must update their knowledge and collect all relevant knowledge relating to hajj pilgrimage and make them aware to perform Hajj rituals correctly and safely.