Multan: The Hajj operation formally commenced at Multan International Airport on Saturday, with the first flight carrying 151 pilgrims departing for Madinah.

The inaugural flight, operated by Airblue, marked the beginning of this year's Hajj operation from Multan.

A total of 39 flights are scheduled to transport around 13,000 pilgrims from South Punjab with the final flight set for May 17. The operation was being managed under the Directorate of Hajj Multan with participation from multiple airlines including PIA,Air-blue and Saudi Airlines.

Chairman Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani attended the ceremony as chief guest and welcomed the pilgrims.

Addressing the gathering, he termed Hajj a great act of worship that teaches patience, sacrifice and brotherhood.

He said that it was an honour for him to bid farewell to the pilgrims and urged them to pray for Pakistan's peace, progress, and unity of the Muslim Ummah while in the holy cities.

He highlighted that the government had ensured modern facilities for pilgrims, including medical services, training programs and digital support such as mobile applications.