First batch of 178 Hajj pilgrims returns to Srinagar

Srinagar: The first batch of Hajj pilgrims returned to Srinagar from Jeddah this evening, officials said, adding that the flight landed at the Srinagar airport at around 9:15pm. The first returning batch comprised 178 pilgrims, out of the total 3,606 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir who undertook the pilgrimage this year.

At Srinagar airport, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah received the first batch this evening. The CM interacted with the Hujaaj and congratulated them on fulfilling this sacred obligation.

He interacted with the Hajj pilgrims and inquired about their experiences and the facilities provided during the pilgrimage.

The Hujaaj expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister and appreciated the arrangements made for their comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

The Chief Minister expressed his appreciation for the devotion and discipline exhibited by the pilgrims during the course of their spiritual journey.

The Haj House in Bemina had issued a notification, stating that vehicle passes for those wishing to receive the pilgrims at the airport can be downloaded from the official website two days prior to the flight.

The notification said immigration clearance and baggage collection take approximately one hour after the flight’s arrival, along with the details of the remaining flights which will be notified separately.

Meanwhile, emotional and joyful scenes were witness at the Srinagar airport pilgrims reunited with their families after undertaking the holy journey.