The second group of Haj pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh began their journey to Saudi Arabia from Vijayawada International Airport. State Minority Welfare Minister N.M.D. Farooq flagged off the batch, extending his best wishes for a successful and peaceful pilgrimage. A total of 177 pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia, following the departure of the first batch of 156 pilgrims the previous day.
In preparation for the pilgrimage, the S.M. Convention Centre in Vijayawada was transformed into a Haj camp for the departing pilgrims. Minister Farooq highlighted the elaborate arrangements made by the Andhra Pradesh government under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s guidance to ensure a smooth journey for the pilgrims. The government officials, including Mohammed Sharif, Hasan Pasha, Mohammed Shubli, Hasan Basha, Maulana Mustaq Ahmed, and others, were present to oversee the proceedings.
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Muslim community and their sacred journeys. He praised the efforts to provide comfortable accommodation and hygienic food for the pilgrims, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Additionally, he assured that the Haj Committee members would be available round-the-clock to offer any necessary medical assistance during the pilgrimage.
Farooq advised the pilgrims to be cautious of the extreme heat in Saudi Arabia and adhere strictly to their schedules due to increased distances between accommodation centers in Mecca and Medina. He also stressed the importance of following gas stove usage regulations in their accommodations. Furthermore, he announced plans for the construction of a Haj House in Amaravati and the expansion of flight services to Saudi Arabia to accommodate more pilgrims in the future.
