Srinagar, May 27: The final group of 273 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir departed from Srinagar International Airport on Monday, concluding the Hajj departures for 2024. The first return flight from Saudi Arabia is scheduled for June 22.
A senior officer from the J&K Hajj Committee reported that the last batch of 273 pilgrims left for the holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia from Srinagar International Airport. This year, over 7,000 pilgrims from J&K have embarked on the holy journey.
“Today marked the last flight of the Hajj schedule, with 273 pilgrims departing for the holy city. Over 7,000 pilgrims have undertaken the holy journey this year, with 39 departing from Mumbai airport and 37 traveling without a Mahram,” the senior officer stated.
The officer added that the core Hajj phase will occur from 8 to 13 Zilhaj, and the first return flight from Saudi Arabia to Srinagar International Airport is scheduled for June 22.
“Jammu and Kashmir Hajis will start returning on June 22, with two flights scheduled for the first day. Each flight will carry 322 pilgrims,” the officer added.
Notably, the first flight for the holy journey departed from Srinagar International Airport on May 9, 2024, from Srinagar’s Hajj House, amidst emotional scenes.
Officials indicated that over 7,000 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are undertaking the pilgrimage to Mecca and Madina, with approximately 6,800 departing from Srinagar and over 500 from other airports.
Collaborative efforts across various departments, including health, security, and emergency services, ensured the success of this year’s pilgrimage. Training sessions were conducted twice to equip pilgrims with essential information and guidance.
This year’s pilgrimage begins with a visit to Madina, with all pilgrims accommodated in Markaziya. Enhancements in Minha include strategically positioned tents in zones 2, 3, and 4, improving the overall experience for the pilgrims.
