Haj flights from Srinagar unaffected by Pakistan’s airspace curbs

Srinagar, May 01: Amid rising concerns over Pakistan’s recent airspace restrictions, officials have assured that Haj flights from Srinagar will continue as planned, as these flights were never routed through Pakistani airspace.

Clearing the air on the issue, authorities said the annual pilgrimage from Jammu and Kashmir remains unaffected and preparations are on track. The Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee has released the schedule for the first batch of pilgrims, confirming that the inaugural flight (SG-5304) will depart from Srinagar on May 4, 2025.

Pilgrims scheduled for the first flight have been instructed to report at Haj House, Bemina, between 5:00 AM and 5:30 AM on the day of departure. The committee emphasized the need for strict adherence to reporting times and baggage guidelines.

The schedule for the remaining flights will be released separately in the coming days.

This year, more than 3,600 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are expected to perform Haj under the government quota.

Meanwhile, apprehensions had emerged following Saudi Arabia’s temporary suspension of Umrah, tourist, and visit visas. However, officials clarified that the move is a routine pre-Haj step aimed at managing logistical arrangements and will not impact the Haj pilgrimage from India.

The authorities have appealed to pilgrims to stay updated through official communication channels and refrain from paying heed to rumours or unverified information. [KNT]