Srinagar, Jun 2 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday welcomed the first batch of Haj pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia at Srinagar International Airport and assured them of all necessary assistance during their arrival.
The first Haj flight carrying 144 pilgrims, including 74 men and 70 women, landed at Srinagar airport, officials said.
Abdullah greeted the returning pilgrims and congratulated them on successfully completing the annual pilgrimage.
Interacting with the pilgrims, the chief minister expressed hope that their prayers and spiritual experiences would contribute to peace, prosperity and well-being in Jammu and Kashmir and across the country.
He also enquired about the arrangements made for the pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia and their return journey, and wished them good health and a blessed life ahead.
The chief minister appreciated the efforts of various departments and agencies involved in facilitating the smooth arrival of the pilgrims and directed the authorities to ensure efficient baggage handling, transportation and other support services.
Abdullah had recently taken up with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry the issue of delays in the transportation of Haj pilgrims’ baggage and sought timely delivery and seamless handling of luggage.
According to officials, a total of 4,641 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir performed Haj this year, of whom 3,952 are scheduled to return through the Srinagar Embarkation Point.
The return flights are scheduled to operate between June 2 and June 16.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Budgam Amir Athar Khan and senior officials of the civil administration, Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee and Airport Authority were present at the airport.(NVI)
