Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, May 05: The outbound Haj movement from Srinagar for Haj 2026 concluded on Tuesday with the final flight taking off, marking the successful completion of a coordinated and smooth airlift operation that saw thousands of pilgrims depart for the holy journey.
Executive Officer of J&K Haj Committee, Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that a total of 3,952 pilgrims departed from the Srinagar Haj Embarkation Point in 28 flights to Madina.
He said the departing pilgrims included 2,201 males and 1,751 females, while the overall number of pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir scheduled to perform Haj this year stands at 4,692.
“Remaining pilgrims are using Delhi and Mumbai embarkation points,” Dr Qureshi said, adding that 12 pilgrims had to cancel their journey at the final stage due to health issues.
With the last flight taking off today, the embarkation process from Srinagar has officially closed.
Srinagar International Airport confirmed the successful culmination of the Haj operations, stating that all 28 flights carrying 3,952 pilgrims departed smoothly as part of a well-coordinated effort involving multiple agencies.
In a message, the airport authorities extended prayers and best wishes to the pilgrims for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey, while thanking all stakeholders and staff for ensuring seamless operations.
The Haj departure process from Srinagar had commenced on April 18, with arrangements reviewed earlier by Haj Committee of India CEO Shanavas C. (IAS), who inspected facilities at Haj House Bemina and the airport, directing officials to ensure smooth, hygienic and pilgrim-friendly services.
Officials had earlier informed that around 4,700 pilgrims from J&K would undertake the pilgrimage this year, with departures conducted in phases.
Meanwhile, Dr Qureshi said that refunds ranging between Rs 17,000 and Rs 31,000 have been credited to Haj 2025 pilgrims, depending on deficiencies in facilities such as accommodation in the Markazia area of Madina and availability of transport services in the Mashair region—(KNO)
