First batch of Haj pilgrims leaves J&K for Saudi Arabia

Srinagar, Aug 10 (IANS) The first batch of 340 Haj pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia on Wednesday on a direct flight from summer capital Srinagar.

They left Srinagar on an Air India direct flight to Madina.

State Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti saw off the first batch of pilgrims at the Srinagar international airport.

Mehbooba Mufti asked the pilgrims to pray for peace and prosperity in the trouble-torn state.

State Haj and Auqaf Minister Farooq Andrabi and senior civil and police officers were present when the Chief Minister saw off the pilgrims.

In the evening another flight left with 341 pilgrims for Saudi Arabia.

This year, 6,457 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to perform the holiest Muslim pilgrimage.

Two fights will operate daily for 20 days to carry the pilgrims to Madina.

Arrangements for transportation, boarding and lodging, luggage check in and security have been made for the pilgrims at Srinagar Haj House.

At the airport arrangements have been made for smooth and prompt screening of baggage, refreshment, food, Nimaz, distribution of travel documents and issuance of boarding passes.