BY: SHERAZ AHMAD SHERAZI
ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has finalized all arrangements for this year’s Hajj operation, with the first flight carrying Pakistani pilgrims set to depart early today.
Federal Minister Sardar Yousaf and the Saudi ambassador will be present to see off the pilgrims as the initial flight takes off at 5:45 AM. Under the official Hajj scheme, a total of 89,000 pilgrims will travel to the Holy Hijaz via 342 flights. The operation will continue for 33 days, with the last flight scheduled for May 31.
In the first 15 days, pilgrims will be transported to Madinah Munawwarah. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other carriers are participating in the operation. Six flights will depart on the first day, including:
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Air Sial Flight PF7700 from Lahore to Madinah at 8:30 AM (150 pilgrims)
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PIA Flight PK7201 from Quetta at 9:30 AM (150 pilgrims)
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PIA Flight PK715 from Multan at 8:15 PM (393 pilgrims)
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Sireen Airlines Flight ER1611 from Karachi at 9:30 PM (285 pilgrims)
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PIA Flight PK747 from Lahore at 10:15 PM (329 pilgrims)
Also read; Hajj flights from Pakistan likely to begin on May 1
Additionally, Islamabad Airport has set up seven special immigration counters under the Road to Mecca project to facilitate pilgrims. A total of 28,400 pilgrims will depart from Islamabad in 100 flights.
The Hajj operation marks a significant annual event, ensuring Pakistani pilgrims can perform their religious duties with ease and proper arrangements.
