First batch of 431 Haj pilgrims leaves from J&K

Srinagar, Apr 18: The first batch of 431 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir left for Saudi Arabia for the annual Haj pilgrimage on Saturday, officials said.

The pilgrims, including 230 males and 201 females, left in three flights, they said.

All the required arrangements for transportation, baggage handling and documentation have been put in place at the Haj House at Bemina here to ensure a smooth departure process, the officials said.

Hundreds of family members of those leaving gathered outside the Haj House to bid farewell to the pilgrims.

A total of 4,764 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will embark on the holy pilgrimage this year. (PTI)