Pakistan has officially started its Hajj operations, with the first flight departing from Karachi airport for Saudi Arabia in the wee hours of Saturday. Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi was present at the airport to see off the pilgrims and later addressed a special ceremony, urging those embarking on the sacred journey to pray for Pakistan’s progress, security and the well-being of its people.
Governor greets first pilgrims
At the Karachi airport ceremony, Nehal Hashmi said that those leaving for Hajj are very fortunate people. He described Hajj as a test of hardship and patience, and asked the pilgrims to keep the country in their prayers, particularly for national security and prosperity.
Pakistan’s place in Hajj and Umrah
The Sindh governor said Pakistan is the second-largest country in terms of people performing Hajj, while Pakistanis rank first in performing Umrah. He also recalled how travel for pilgrims has changed over time, saying that in the past they used to travel on foot, then by sea, and now by airplane, allowing them to reach their destination within a few hours.
Travel now faster than before
The start of Hajj flights from Karachi marks the formal beginning of Pakistan’s annual pilgrimage operations. For the first group of pilgrims, the journey began in the early hours of Saturday from Karachi airport, underscoring the scale and significance of the departure for families and religious travellers alike.
Prayer and national well-being
Hashmi’s message focused on both the spiritual importance of Hajj and its wider civic meaning, with repeated emphasis on prayers for Pakistan. As the first flight took off, the ceremony reflected the emotional and religious importance of the pilgrimage season for the country’s Muslims and the families who saw off their loved ones.
