LAHORE, Jan 6: Punjab Governor Khalid Maqbool inaugurated on Monday the Haj operation of the national airlines for carrying 35,000 intending pilgrims from the city to Saudi Arabia by 75 flights at the Lahore Airport.

Speaking on the occasion, he said the Haj symbolized the unity and integration of the Ummat. Millions of Muslims coming from all parts of the world and wearing the same dress gathered at the holy Kaaba and reiterated their faith in Allah’s supremacy.

He said the similarity of ‘ehram’ worn by the pilgrims reminded them that they had to leave the world in the same outfit. The awe inspiring feelings of spiritual closeness and internal piety experienced by them while visiting the holy Kaaba and the mausoleum of the Holy Prophet at Madina could be understood only by those who had performed the Haj.

Governor Maqbool said the government was working on the plan for the establishment of a permanent Haj Camp in Lahore and a suitable site would be identified for the purpose.

He urged them to pray for the solidarity of Pakistan along with the welfare of their family members and the Ummat.

He urged them to forget and forgive any difficulties they might have experienced despite the best efforts of various ministries to provide them every facility for their holy journey.

He shook hands with every pilgrim before boarding the plane. Some of them embarked on the plane after embracing him.

Earlier, Haj director Farogh-i-Aftab and Civil Aviation Authority director Zaheeruddin briefed the intending pilgrims about the requirements for the journey to the holy land.