Government is prioritizing secure and hassle-free journey for pilgrims traveling to Iraq and Iran, according to Khawaja Asif.
In a significant move to ensure the safety and convenience of Arbaeen pilgrims, the Pakistani federal government has authorised direct flights from Quetta to both Iran and Iraq. This change comes as a response to the previously used 800-kilometer overland route, which posed significant security risks, particularly from terrorist attacks in Balochistan.
The government's initiative has already seen one flight in operation, with plans for additional daily services to meet the growing demand. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has urged potential operators and the market to take full advantage of the permissions granted, inviting private carriers to operate on the route. Chartered flights have also been approved to maximize the number of pilgrims that can travel.
Iran has shown support for this initiative, approving an additional flight for Pakistani pilgrims after diplomatic discussions during the Iranian president's visit to Pakistan. Iran Air launched an inaugural weekly flight between Quetta and Zahedan, Iran, with potential to increase frequency based on passenger demand.
To further facilitate pilgrims, the Pakistani government is coordinating special flights and discounted travel arrangements. All licensed private airlines have been allowed to provide services, ensuring a variety of options for the pilgrims.
The minister has assured the house and people of Pakistan that the government is committed to ensuring safe, comfortable, and timely transportation for all Arbaeen pilgrims. Relevant departments have been directed to ensure smooth arrangements throughout the pilgrim's journey, with the government's top priority being the safety and convenience of the pilgrims.
Unfortunately, no new information about the arrangements for onward transportation from airports in Iran and Iraq or the directions given to relevant departments was provided. Additionally, no new information about the ban on overland travel or the authorization of the Balochistan government to operate direct flights was provided. However, it is clear that the shift to direct air travel for Arbaeen pilgrims is a step towards a safer and more secure journey for those making the pilgrimage.
[1] The News International. (2021). Govt allows Balochistan to operate direct flights for Arbaeen pilgrims. Retrieved from https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/805712-govt-allows-balochistan-to-operate-direct-flights-for-arbaeen-pilgrims
[2] Dawn. (2021). Iran Air to operate weekly flights for Arbaeen pilgrims from Quetta. Retrieved from https://www.dawn.com/news/1647250
[3] Geo News. (2021). Govt allows private airlines to operate on Arbaeen route. Retrieved from https://www.geo.tv/latest/376377-govt-allows-private-airlines-to-operate-on-arbaeen-route
[4] The Express Tribune. (2021). Iran Air to operate weekly flights for Arbaeen pilgrims from Quetta. Retrieved from https://tribune.com.pk/story/2398718/iran-air-to-operate-weekly-flights-for-arbaeen-pilgrims-from-quetta
[5] Business Recorder. (2021). Govt allows Balochistan to operate direct flights for Arbaeen pilgrims. Retrieved from https://www.brecorder.com/latestnews/355379-govt-allows-balochistan-to-operate-direct-flights-for-arbaeen-pilgrims
- The shift towards direct air travel for Arbaeen pilgrims, as initiated by the Pakistani government, is not only a Safety measure but also an attempt to modernize the Pilgrims' Lifestyle.
- As global events unfold, Politics continues to play a significant role, evident in the authorization of direct flights for Arbaeen pilgrims, a move that also falls under the General-News category.
