Atiya Mujeeb
SRINAGAR, June 2: The return journey of Haj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir began on Tuesday as the first group of worshippers arrived home after completing the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
A flight carrying one hundred and forty-four pilgrims landed at Srinagar International Airport during the afternoon, marking the start of the scheduled return operations for Haj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Family members gathered at the airport to welcome their loved ones, creating an emotional atmosphere as pilgrims reunited with relatives after several weeks abroad.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the airport to greet the returning pilgrims and congratulate them on completing one of the most significant religious obligations in Islam. He was accompanied by his advisor, Nasir Aslam Wani, along with senior civil and administrative officials.
Officials said the repatriation process will continue in phases over the coming days, with multiple flights scheduled to bring back the remaining pilgrims. The operation is expected to conclude on June 16.
According to official figures, a total of four thousand six hundred and forty-one people from Jammu and Kashmir performed Haj this year. The pilgrims included two thousand five hundred and eighty-three men and two thousand and fifty-eight women who travelled to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah for the pilgrimage.
Authorities have put in place necessary arrangements at the airport to facilitate the smooth arrival of pilgrims, including assistance with baggage, transportation, and other logistical requirements.
