What Happened During the First Phase of Hajj 2025 Departures?

Synopsis
The first phase of Hajj 2025 departures has concluded, with thousands of pilgrims embarking on their sacred journey. Authorities ensure a smooth experience as the second phase begins. Discover how India is supporting its pilgrims during this momentous occasion.
Key Takeaways
- First phase of Hajj 2025 departures successfully concluded.
- Major Indian airports facilitated the travel.
- Over 1.20 lakh pilgrims supported through air charter operations.
- Second phase of departures is currently underway.
- Continuous monitoring of safety and accommodation for pilgrims.
New Delhi, May 19 (NationPress) The initial phase of air departures (Lap-I) for the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage has been successfully wrapped up, with airports in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhopal, Delhi, Gaya, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Mumbai managing the majority of the travel surge, as confirmed by an official on Monday.
The second phase of air departures (Lap-II) kicked off on May 10 and is currently ongoing from airports in Ahmedabad, Calicut, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kannur, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, and Srinagar, according to the official report.
More than 1.20 lakh pilgrims are expected to benefit from the air charter services being executed over a limited timeframe of one month, as stated, with the first phase of air departures commencing on April 29.
The statement highlighted that these air charter operations are carried out in close collaboration with various stakeholder ministries and organizations as travelers embark on their spiritual expedition, getting ready for the holy rituals they will undertake.
On Thursday, India's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, met with pilgrims from various Indian states in Mecca to ensure that all Hajj pilgrims have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
"Ambassador Suhel Khan visited pilgrims from different states and checked on their welfare and any issues they faced in Mecca today. The Government of India is dedicated to ensuring the comfort and safety of Indian pilgrims, making their sacred Hajj journey as seamless as possible," the Embassy of India in Riyadh posted on X.
The Ambassador, accompanied by Indian Consul (Hajj) Muhammed Abdul Jaleel and other coordinators, inspected various operational desks, branch offices, and branch dispensaries established to assist the Indian pilgrims in Mecca.
Furthermore, the Ambassador conducted a thorough review of the Azizia Transport services in Mecca. This transport system is a convenient, 24-hour service provided for pilgrims, transporting them from their residences to the Haram Sharif through the Indian Hajj Mission.
Continuous monitoring and assessment of the medical and accommodation provisions for Indian Hajj pilgrims is also taking place. The Indian Consul General of Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, held a review meeting on Wednesday with officials and staff stationed at temporary branch offices and dispensaries, alongside various cells and desks established by the Indian Hajj Mission.