In a major development aimed at facilitating religious pilgrims, the government of Pakistan has increased weekly flights to Iran from six to fifteen and announced 107 special flights to Iraq for Arbaeen, a significant religious event observed forty days after Ashura. These measures were finalised during an important meeting of the special task force established to streamline travel for pilgrims to Iran and Iraq. 

The meeting was chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and attended by Federal Ministers Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Talal Chaudhry, as well as top officials from civil aviation and other relevant departments. During the briefing by Civil Aviation Authority officials, it was revealed that in addition to the increase in Iran-bound flights, elaborate arrangements have been made to operate 107 special flights for pilgrims travelling to Iraq for Arbaeen. 

The task force also reviewed long-term facilitation plans, including the introduction of a ferry service in the near future. Key security and logistics decisions were made during the session to enhance safety and convenience for pilgrims. A proposal to further increase the number of flights to Iran and Iraq was discussed. The task force also agreed to reassess the ground travel arrangements for Arbaeen following Ashura to ensure updated security protocols are in place. 

Significantly, the government has decided to overhaul the pilgrim management system. From January 1, 2026, the existing “Salar System” will be completely phased out, and only registered group organisers will be authorised to send pilgrims for religious visits abroad. As of now, 1,413 applications for group organiser registration have been received and are under scrutiny. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, while addressing the meeting, emphasised that the safety and well-being of pilgrims remain the government’s top priority.

He stressed that in light of the current regional and security situation, every effort must be made to ensure pilgrims are protected from all forms of hardship or illegal exploitation. The minister directed the FIA and relevant agencies to take robust action to prevent any misuse of pilgrimage arrangements for illegal travel to Iraq.

He underscored the importance of strict enforcement and real-time screening to deter unauthorised movements. The meeting also included participation from the secretaries of the interior, religious affairs, information, and foreign ministries, along with DG FIA, DG Civil Aviation, the Additional Chief Secretary of Balochistan, IG Balochistan, Commissioner Quetta, and other officials who joined the session via Zoom.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)