Srinagar: The first batch of 270 Haj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday left for Saudi Arabia in a direct flight from here.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was at the Srinagar airport to see off the pilgrims, an official spokesman said.
The Chief Minister, while interacting with the pilgrims, wished them well-being, success and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Minister for Hajj and Auqaf Peerzada Mohammad Sayed and State Haj Committee member Shehnaz Ganie were also present.
As per this year's Haj schedule, the flights will operate directly between Srinagar and Medina. Only one flight was scheduled today while two flights will operate daily from tomorrow till September 12.
A total number of 7,007 pilgrims are proceeding for Haj this year through the State Haj Committee.
The male pilgrims have been provided with a special jacket and female pilgrims with a scarf with logo of State Haj Committee for easy identification.
