Srinagar, Apr 16: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Wednesday directed all concerned departments and agencies to work in synergy to ensure that Hajj-2025 becomes a hassle-free and seamless experience for the intending pilgrims.
Chairing a high-level meeting to review arrangements for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, the Divisional Commissioner issued a slew of directions to officers, instructing them to intensify preparations and ensure foolproof arrangements for the smooth departure of pilgrims.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioners of almost all districts of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh UTs, Additional Commissioner Kashmir, Director Airports Authority of India, and officers from departments including Police, Emigration & Customs, R&B, PHE, KPDCL, MED, Traffic, Transport, Information, Hospitality & Protocol, Health, Haj Committee, CISF, Airforce, J&K Bank and other agencies.
Highlighting the significance of Hajj, the Div Com urged DCs to activate Hajj Cells in their offices to monitor preparations for facilitating pilgrims. He directed the Health Department to set up medical camps and complete vaccinations well in time so that all selected pilgrims are protected and vaccination certificates are issued promptly.
The meeting was informed that Hajj flights are scheduled to begin from May 4, 2025, from Srinagar to Saudi Arabia, with the final flight leaving on May 15, 2025.
Emphasizing the need for sufficient foreign exchange at J&K Bank branches at Haj House Bemina and Srinagar Airport, the Div Com directed the bank authorities to ensure adequate Saudi currency availability to avoid inconvenience to pilgrims.
He also directed the PHE, KPDCL, and SMC to ensure uninterrupted civil amenities at Haj House, including electricity, water supply, and sanitation. Immediate repairs to interior roads were also instructed to ensure smooth vehicle movement. Adequate boarding and lodging facilities must be arranged at Haj House for pilgrims from Jammu and Ladakh, considering weather and road conditions.
The Div Com instructed Customs and Immigration departments to make special arrangements at the airport, including installation of adequate X-ray machines and posting of technical staff at Haj House.
To ensure smooth movement of Haj convoy vehicles, the Div Com directed the Traffic Department to prepare a meticulous plan for the transit of pilgrim buses and luggage from Haj House Bemina to Srinagar Airport. SSP Traffic Rural was instructed to ensure hassle-free movement of vehicles carrying Haj pilgrims from Ladakh to Srinagar.
For effective coordination, the Div Com directed that a dedicated WhatsApp group be created for officers concerned for timely dissemination of flight schedules and important advisories.
