LAHORE, Dec 5: Governor Khalid Maqbool saw off the first Haj flight from Lahore to Madina at the Haj terminal here on Monday. Religious Affairs Minister Ejazul Haq, airport manager and other officials were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the intending pilgrims, the governor said arrangements for their boarding and lodging have been improved a lot in recent years and further improvement was being made.

He praised the Saudi Arabia government and Pakistani officials for their efforts in dealing with the pilgrims.

Governor Maqbool said Pakistan was facing a hard time due to earthquake and appealed to the pilgrims to pray to Allah to save the affected families from further tragedy and help their early rehabilitation.

“Sometimes you may face difficulties while performing Haj, but it is a time to test your strength, patience and tolerance, so please cooperate with your fellows in such a situation,” Governor Maqbool said, and prayed that their pilgrimage is blessed by Allah and that they return home safe and sound.

The governor later told newsmen that society was heading towards religious tolerance due to the policies pursued by the government.

He said the president has fulfilled all his promises.

He observed that the president would take a decision on the construction of water reservoirs and NFC Award.

Avoiding the construction of water reservoirs was like committing suicide, which would not be allowed, he added.

The governor also assured that the issue of construction of a Haji camp in Lahore would be solved within the current fiscal year.—APP