First Batch of 431 Haj Pilgrims from J&K Leaves for Saudi Arabia

SRINAGAR, Apr 18: The annual Haj pilgrimage from Jammu and Kashmir commenced on Saturday as the first batch of 431 pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia, officials said, marking the beginning of this year’s outbound journey for thousands of devotees.

The departing group includes 230 male and 201 female pilgrims who travelled in three separate flights from Srinagar. Authorities confirmed that comprehensive arrangements for transportation, baggage handling, documentation, and facilitation were made at the Haj House, Bemina, to ensure a smooth and orderly departure process.

A total of 4,764 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are scheduled to undertake the holy pilgrimage this year, officials added.

The atmosphere outside the Haj House remained emotional as hundreds of family members gathered to bid farewell to the departing pilgrims. Many were seen offering prayers, hugs, and emotional goodbyes as the pilgrims set off for the sacred journey.

Officials stated that the entire process has been streamlined to ensure comfort, efficiency, and proper coordination for all pilgrims in the upcoming batches.