Centre directs Balochistan to operate flights from Quetta to Iraq, Iran for Arbaeen pilgrims

(Web Desk) - Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Tuesday that the Balochistan government had been directed to operate direct flights from Quetta to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen pilgrims.

He made these remarks while addressing the National Assembly where he said the government was taking steps to facilitate Arbaeen pilgrims after they were barred from land travel for Arbaeen.

In his address at the NA, the minister said the ban was imposed due to volatile security environment, especially due to the threat of terrorist attacks on pilgrim convoys.

“To mitigate these risks, the centre has directed the Balochistan government to operate direct flights from Quetta, allowing pilgrims to safely travel by air to their destinations,” he said.

“Iran has so far allowed one such flight; we are pressing them to start frequent flight operations as well.”

Arrangements had also been made for onward transportation of pilgrims from airports in Iran and Iraq to their intended sites, he said.

“Advertisements had been published over the past four days inviting private carriers to operate on the route, and all licensed private airlines had been allowed to provide services,” he told the NA.

“Chartered flights have also been approved to maximise the number of pilgrims able to travel safely.”