Kochi, 30 April (H.S.): The first batch of Haj pilgrims from Kerala will depart from Kochi on Wednesday, marking the beginning of this year’s pilgrimage from the state. A total of 430 pilgrims will board the inaugural flight scheduled to take off at 2:10 p.m. from Cochin International Airport (Nedumbassery).

The departure follows the formal inauguration of the state Haj camp at Nedumbassery on Tuesday, where arrangements have been put in place to facilitate pilgrims ahead of their journey. This year, operations from Kochi will be handled by Flynas, replacing Saudi Arabian Airlines, which operated services in the previous year.

In total, 7,943 pilgrims will depart from Kochi during the Haj season. Across Kerala, a combined 13,194 pilgrims are expected to travel for the pilgrimage through three designated embarkation points.

Apart from Kochi, departures have also been scheduled from Kannur and Kozhikode. Flights from Kannur will operate between May 6 and May 14, while services from Kozhikode are arranged from May 14 to May 17. Authorities have coordinated travel schedules and logistical support to ensure a smooth and orderly movement of pilgrims from all three centres.

Officials said elaborate arrangements, including medical screening, documentation verification, and accommodation facilities, have been set up at the embarkation points. Special attention has also been given to elderly pilgrims and those requiring assistance.

The Haj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, draws thousands of devotees from Kerala every year. With preparations now in full swing, authorities expect the outbound journey to proceed seamlessly in the coming weeks.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman