Srinagar: Amid the US-Israel-Iran war, the first batch of Hajj pilgrims from the Kashmir Valley departed for Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage on Saturday, marking the beginning of the sacred journey.
Hundreds of family members gathered since early morning at Haj House, Bemina, here to bid farewell to their loved ones. The premises witnessed touching moments as relatives embraced departing pilgrims, offered prayers and wiped away tears before the journey began.
Officials said that the first batch of 431 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir left for Saudi Arabia on Saturday. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah saw them off at the airport here, officials said.
The pilgrims, including 230 males and 201 females, left in three flights, they said.
Officials said all required arrangements for transportation, baggage handling and documentation have been put in place at the Hajj House in Bemina here to ensure a smooth departure process.
Hundreds of family members of pilgrims gathered outside the Hajj House to bid them farewell.
A total of 4,764 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will embark on the pilgrimage this year.
The chief minister saw off the first batch of Hajj-2026 pilgrims at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, here, his office said in a post on X.
“He extended his best wishes to the pilgrims for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey and requested them to pray for peace, progress, and prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir,” the CM’s office said.
It said the chief minister also directed officials to ensure smooth facilitation and adequate arrangements for all pilgrims, focusing on seamless coordination, passenger convenience, and timely assistance at every stage of the journey.
Officials said three flights carrying a total of 431 pilgrims departed from Srinagar on the first day, including 230 men and 201 women.
Executive Officer of the Haj Committee, Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi told KNO that all arrangements, including transport, baggage handling, medical screening and documentation, had been put in place to ensure smooth departures.
“We have made all necessary arrangements for the comfort and convenience of pilgrims. The process remained smooth since morning,” he said.
Later, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah formally saw off the first batch of pilgrims at Srinagar International Airport. He interacted with the devotees, extended greetings and wished them a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling journey.
CM Abdullah prayed for successful completion of Haj and sought blessings for peace, harmony and prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir.
Officials said 28 flights will operate between April 18 and May 5 to facilitate the pilgrimage this year. A total of 4,704 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir are scheduled to perform Haj in 2026.
