SRINAGAR: The first group of Hajj pilgrims from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir departed for Saudi Arabia on Saturday, with the flight taking off from Srinagar International Airport.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha saw off the pilgrims and interacted with them ahead of their departure. He conveyed his greetings and wished them a safe journey and a meaningful spiritual experience. He also expressed hopes for peace, prosperity, and well-being across the region.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was also present at the departure of the pilgrims.
“The Hajj pilgrimage is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. It is a dream come true for many. The central government is committed to ensuring that pilgrims have access to the best possible arrangements throughout their travel,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
According to officials, 3,622 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are expected to perform Hajj this year. Between May 4 and May 15, eleven flights are scheduled to depart from Srinagar International Airport, carrying around 3,132 pilgrims from J&K and 242 from the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Several officials were present during the send-off, including Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Vidhi Kumar Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, and representatives from the J&K Hajj Committee, Airport Authority, and civil and police administration.
