Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Aug 16: The first batch of Haj pilgrims from the state will leave from Mangaluru International Airport here on Sunday August 16 at 4 pm. Ahead of the departure, a Haj camp organized by Haj management committee was inaugurated at the airport premises the same morning to wish good luck to the batch.
As many as 666 Haj pilgrims from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Kodagu districts are scheduled to leave for Saudi Arabia in different batches from Mangaluru airport. The first flight, operated by Flynas airways, will be carrying 134 pilgrims.
Udupi Qazi Bekal Ibrahim Musliyar inaugurated the formal programme and blessed the gathering. In his address, he asked the pilgrims to pray for the country and conveyed best wishes for the success of their pilgrimage.
Mangaluru Qazi Twaka Ahmed Musliyar led the dua (prayers).
Addressing the gathering, health minister U T Khader said, "The work on the construction of Haj Bhavan in Mangaluru will be started soon, and 1.96 acres of land at Kenjar has already been earmarked for the project.
"The government will look after all the health facilities required for the Haj pilgrims. Wakf officer Abubakker has been appointed as nodal officer for Haj pilgrims in Dakshina Kannada and he can be contacted if any issue arises," he added.
MLA Mohiuddin Bava said, "From past 7 to 8 years Haj pilgrims have been leaving to Saudi Arabia by direct flights from Mangaluru airport. The government has provided all facilities to ensure a comfortable journey for them."
District incharge minister Ramanath Rai and minister for sports and youth affairs Abhaychandra Jain conveyed best wishes to the pilgrims.
MLC Ivan D'Souza, mayor Jacintha Alfred, deputy commissioner A B Ibrahim and others were present.