MULTAN: The Hajj operation formally commenced at Multan International Airport on Saturday, with the first flight carrying 151 pilgrims departing for Madinah. The inaugural flight, operated by Airblue, marked the beginning of this year’s Hajj operation from Multan.

According to Senate of Pakistan, a total of 39 flights are scheduled to transport around 13,000 pilgrims from South Punjab, with the final flight set for May 17. The operation is being managed under the Directorate of Hajj Multan with participation from multiple airlines, including PIA, Air-blue, and Saudi Airlines.

Chairman Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, attended the ceremony as chief guest and welcomed the pilgrims. Addressing the gathering, he described Hajj as an act of worship that teaches patience, sacrifice, and brotherhood. He expressed honor in bidding farewell to the pilgrims and urged them to pray for Pakistan’s peace, progress, and unity of the Muslim Ummah while in the holy cities.

Gilani highlighted the government’s efforts in ensuring modern facilities for pilgrims, including medical services, training programs, and digital support such as mobile applications.