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| First batch of Hajj pilgrims arrive in Srinagar | | | Early Times Report
Srinagar, Aug 18: The first batch of 300 Hajj pilgrims arrived in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir today. Senior officials have ensured coordination and security checks at the arrival venue.
Tears and smiles were seen as pilgrims started to arrive. Amid communication restrictions, families waited at the airport since morning to meet the returning Hajis.
I am happy to return to my family. It is a new life. I have brought duas and blessings for all. Everything will be fine, soon, god willing, said Majid as he hugged the family members waiting for him.
Administration has made all the arrangements. We were fine but could not speak to our loved ones for 15 days. We are happy to be here now, said an elderly pilgrim.
Administration ensured a smooth return for most pilgrims providing SRTC buses while many families arrived early.
Senior police officials were present at the spot.
Divisional commissioner Basher Khan said, SRTC buses are being provided to ensure smooth return of pilgrims to their homes. We are coordinating at the district level as well.
People who had personal transport arrived at 7 am and waited for 3 hours to meet arriving pilgrims. With no contact for 15 days, there was no clarity of their arrival arrangements.
My aunt and uncle are coming. Only one person is allowed inside so we are waiting here. I have brought a welcome present for them, said Salma, who lives in Civil Lines area of Srinagar.
My children were happy to meet their grandmother who is returning today from Hajj. So all of us have come here and so eager to see her, said Mumtaz, who had come from Kulgam.
Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal on Saturday said, 26,000 phone lines will be made functional and security is being reviewed on a daily basis. In a phased manner, telecommunication will be opened.
Importantly, the principal secretary confirmed that 6-7 stone-pelting incidents have been reported in areas where no restriction was given. Eight people were injured in the protests who have been shifted to the hospital and are stable. He refused to elaborate on injury details.
My phone worked and I spoke to my daughter in Dubai. Local calls are not functioning properly but at least I could speak to her. She was crying with happiness, said Dr Rafi, a resident of Raj Bagh.
My phone only has incoming calls but one person called to check on us from Delhi and that is it, said Sadaf.
The restrictions in 35 police stations in Kashmir have been eased over the weekend.
"All education officers have met the divisional commissioner. Primary schools are set to open in areas where restrictions have been eased. said Kansal. |
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