Pre-Hajj flights operation under Regular Scheme begins

Islamabad: Pre-Hajj flights operation under Regular Hajj Scheme to transport one hundred eighty thousand Pakistani pilgrims to Saudi Arabia began on Saturday.

The first Hajj flight of the operation departed from Karachi on Saturday morning carrying 155 Pakistani Hajj pilgrims.

Upon arrival at Madinah, the intending pilgrims were warmly received with flowers and gifts by Pakistani Hajj officials.

The pilgrims were promptly accommodated in quality residences in the Markaziyah area, where special arrangements have been made for their comfort and convenience. Nusuk cards were also issued immediately to facilitate smooth movement and ease in performing religious rituals.

The pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the excellent arrangements made by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Pakistan, and the Pakistan Hajj Mission, stating that all facilities, from Pakistan to their stay in Madinah, were well-organized and commendable.

Meanwhile, another Hajj flight carrying 345 intending pilgrims departed from Lahore on Saturday.

Addressing the ceremony of the ‘Road to Makkah’ project at Lahore airport, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said that more than ninety five thousand Pakistani pilgrims will benefit from the project this year.

The Minister said that every pilgrim will be provided with a free Saudi SIM card to help them stay connected with their families in Pakistan.

He said that 24,000 pilgrims will benefit from high-speed and comfortable train travel between Makkah and Madinah.