Kargil, May 20 : Newly appointed Chairman of Haj Committee Ladakh, Ghulam Abass Abidi, on Tuesday outlined a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening Haj management and improving pilgrim facilities in the Union Territory during his first official visit to Kargil after assuming office.
Addressing a press conference, Abidi said the newly constituted Haj Committee, formed on May 5, had initiated efforts to make the institution more effective and responsive in addressing issues related to Haj arrangements and pilgrim welfare.
He said the committee had already held meetings with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and senior administrative officials, including the Chief Secretary, to discuss pending matters concerning Haj infrastructure and services in the region.
Highlighting infrastructure-related developments, the Chairman said land had been identified near Kargil Airport for the construction of a Haj House and that the proposal was being expedited.
Abidi also announced that the Passport Seva Kendra in Kargil is expected to become operational during the first week of June. Until then, he said, temporary passport service camps would be organised to facilitate applicants.
Focusing on pilgrim welfare, the Chairman said religious scholars would be associated with the Haj process to provide guidance and support to pilgrims, while senior citizens would receive priority in facilities and arrangements.
He further stated that the committee would work towards addressing disparities in airfare and improving flight arrangements for Haj pilgrims in the coming years.
The Chairman said consultations were also being held with religious and social organisations to improve coordination and ensure better delivery of services to pilgrims from Ladakh.
Reaffirming the committee’s priorities, Abidi said establishment of the Haj House, strengthening passport-related infrastructure and improving overall facilities for pilgrims remained central to the Haj Committee’s agenda.
He was accompanied during the press briefing by committee members Sheikh Liyaqat Ali, Haji Ghulam Mohammad, Zahra Banoo, Ashay Mallo and Mohammad Hussain.
