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Daudpota sees off first batch of Haj pilgrims

KARACHI: A massive Haj operation began on Saturday with the departure of first batch of 279 Haj pilgrims by a Saudi airline flight.

Sindh Governor Air Marshal Azim Daudpota (Retd), saw off the intending Hujjaj with the hope that while in the Holy land they would have a practical appraisal of their routines and problems.

Addressing the Haj pilgrims at the Haj Terminal of Quaid-e-Azam International Airport (QIAP), the governor pointed out to them that during the period from start of journey and return to Pakistan, they will have to pass through patience-testing stages.

They will earn as many virtues as many odds and problems they will tolerate with whole-heartedness and forbearance, he added.

The governor told them that they are going to a land where "Khana-e-Kaaba" is situated and where laws are strictly enforced. He said they are expected of fully abiding by those laws.

He appealed to the Hajis to specially pray for the progress, prosperity, security and integrity of Pakistan during their stay there.

Earlier the director QIAP, Brig Tariq Mahmood in his welcome remarks said that Haj is a most important ritual of Islam which serves as a source of convergence of Muslims from all over the globe.

He said that Haj teaches the lesson of discipline, patience, tolerance and forbearance and it is the religious and moral responsibility of intending Hujjaj to play their due role for the elation of respect and honour of their country.

Brig Tariq said that provision of better facilities to passengers at the airport is the basic responsibility of CAA, but these facilities are provided to Haj pilgrims as a religious duty.ÑAPP