ISLAMABAD, Aug 5 (Alliance News): Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and convenience of Pakistani pilgrims travelling to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen, stating that all necessary measures have been taken for their secure and smooth journey.
Addressing the National Assembly, Khawaja Asif said the federal government had prioritised the safety of pilgrims in light of security concerns along the overland route from Quetta.
He noted that the 800-kilometre land route posed serious threats, including potential terrorist attacks on pilgrim convoys. “Due to the grave security situation, overland travel along this route has been restricted,” he said.
To address these concerns, the government has allowed the Balochistan administration to arrange direct flights from Quetta to destinations in Iran and Iraq.
The minister informed lawmakers that one such flight had already been launched and discussions were underway to increase the frequency of operations—either with two flights daily or at least one regular service.
The government has also coordinated arrangements for onward transportation from arrival airports in Iran and Iraq to the pilgrims’ final religious sites.
“All efforts are being made to ensure a seamless travel experience for the pilgrims from Pakistan to their destinations,” Asif added.
In addition to government-operated flights, advertisements were issued over the past four days inviting licensed private airlines to begin operations on the route.
All licensed carriers have been permitted to provide services, and chartered flights have also been approved to expand the capacity of the airlift operation.
“These steps are intended to provide maximum facilities to pilgrims while avoiding the risk posed by road travel through Balochistan,” he said. The minister urged private operators to take full advantage of the government’s permissions and help meet the growing demand from the pilgrims.
Highlighting regional cooperation, Asif said the matter was also discussed during the recent visit of the Iranian president to Pakistan. “Iran has agreed to allow an additional flight to further ease the movement of Pakistani pilgrims,” he told the House.
The defence minister assured the National Assembly and the public that the government was fully committed to the safe, comfortable, and timely transportation of all pilgrims participating in the annual Arbaeen observance.
