SRINAGAR: The first group of 630 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will depart for Saudi Arabia on the annual Hajj pilgrimage on Wednesday, as stated by officials.

For the first time in ten years, the Hajj pilgrims will arrive directly in Jeddah. Dr Shujaat Ahmed Qureshi, Executive Officer of the Jammu & Kashmir Hajj Committee, informed that two flights are scheduled to take off from J&K to Saudi Arabia, with each flight accommodating 315 Hajj pilgrims tomorrow.

“The first flight is scheduled for 3 PM, while the second will depart at 5 PM,” he stated. Pilgrims have been instructed to arrive at least six hours prior to departure to complete necessary formalities on time.

He also mentioned that this year, female pilgrims without Mahrams will be allowed to perform the Hajj for the first time. At least 115 such pilgrims will leave for Saudi Arabia on June 9, 2023.

Based on the draw of lots held in March 2023, approximately 10,000 individuals from Jammu and Kashmir have been selected to perform the Hajj this year. A total of 14,271 applications were received for Hajj-2023.

This marks the first time in ten years that the pilgrims will directly land in Jeddah from Jammu & Kashmir. The authorities have also requested that the pilgrims carry their Ahram in their respective hand luggage.

Director of Srinagar International Airport, Kuldeep Singh Rishi said that a separate area has been designated at the airport to guide the pilgrims from the departure entry gate to the aircraft. Segregated areas have been provided where pilgrims can put on their Ahram.

Special arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for the pilgrims, Rishi explained. “A dedicated check-in counter has been established at Haj house Bemina to screen the pilgrims’ baggage. The pilgrims will then be transported to the airport in air-conditioned coaches, and their baggage will be carried in separate sealed container trucks,” he said.

He further added that customs clearance will also be conducted at Haj House Bemina to prevent congestion at the airport. “For the Srinagar to Jeddah leg of the journey, the Airport Authority has deployed an Airbus A340, a wide-body aircraft known for its spaciousness and comfort.” (KNO)

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