Govt Clears Quetta Flights for Shia Pilgrims
BALOCHISTAN, PAKISTAN, AUG 05 – The federal government banned overland travel due to security risks and authorised flights from Quetta, with one flight operating and plans for daily services to support Arbaeen pilgrims.
- On June 20, 2024, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif informed the National Assembly that the central government has instructed the Balochistan administration to initiate direct air services from Quetta to Iran and Iraq to support Arbaeen pilgrims.
- This decision came after the 800-kilometre land route was closed due to heightened security concerns, including threats posed to pilgrim convoys by terrorist activities.
- The government has approved chartered flights and issued advertisements recently inviting licensed private airlines to operate routes, aiming to enhance travel capacity and ensure the safe movement of pilgrims.
- Defense Minister Asif emphasized to the House that the government is dedicated to providing secure, comfortable, and timely travel arrangements for all Arbaeen pilgrims, noting that Iran has authorized at least one flight to support this effort.
- The initiative seeks to provide pilgrims with comprehensive air travel options and coordinated transfers upon arrival at airports in both Iran and Iraq, addressing increasing demand while prioritizing their safety.
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Govt clears Quetta flights for Shia pilgrims
The federal government has authorised direct flights from Quetta to facilitate pilgrims travelling to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif announced in the National Assembly on Tuesday. During the session — chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq — the house unanimously passed two resolutions marking Youm-e-Istehsal, condemning atrocities in the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, opposition members continu…
Balochistan govt allowed to operate direct flights for Arbaeen pilgrims: Khawaja Asif
In view of the security concerns, Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif on Tuesday said that the Balochistan government was allowed to operate direct flights from Quetta to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen...
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