First two Haj flights leave for Jeddah

     LAHORE, Sept 20 (APP): The first two Haj flights, a part
of 32 flights operation of the Pakistan International
Airlines (PIA), carrying one thousand intending pilgrims
left for Jeddah here on Thursday.
     About thirty six thousands pilgrims through private and
government schemes would depart from here this year and
their departure started on Thursday which will continue till
October 20.
     For the first time due to hard struggle of Minister for
Religious Affairs Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, the train facility
from Minna to Arfat and Muzdalfa is being provided to
Pakistani pilgrims.
     Visas have been issued to all pilgrims who would
perform Haj through the government scheme and arrangements have
been finalized for their departure.
     Federal Minister Samina Khalid Ghurki and officials of
the ministry of religious affairs saw off the pilgrims at the
Airport.
     On this occasion, special prayers were offered for the
prosperity of the country.