SRINAGAR: Hajj flights from Kashmir with Srinagar embarkation are set to begin today, with 4,704 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir scheduled to depart in 28 flights up to May 5.
Executive Officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee, Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, said all arrangements have been finalised to ensure smooth departure of the pilgrims.
Of the total pilgrims, 3,990 will depart through Srinagar embarkation, including 323 pilgrims from Ladakh. The remaining pilgrims will travel through Delhi and Mumbai embarkation points.
Officials said each pilgrim will be provided with a SIM-enabled smartwatch for tracking and coordination during the pilgrimage.
Authorities have also introduced stricter health screening guidelines this year. Self-cooking facilities have been discontinued and food arrangements will instead be provided to the pilgrims.
Due to ongoing repair work at Srinagar International Airport, the flights will operate with reduced passenger capacity and will make refuelling halts in Delhi before proceeding to Medina.
Accommodation facilities have been arranged at the Hajj House Srinagar for pilgrims arriving from far-off districts, including Jammu and Ladakh, ahead of their departure.
