Dhaka, Apr 16 (V7N) — The holy Hajj pilgrimage from Bangladesh is set to begin on Friday (April 17), with the first flight scheduled to depart at 12:30 am carrying 419 pilgrims.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to formally inaugurate the Hajj operations. Final preparations are currently underway at the Ashkona Hajj Camp, where pilgrims are completing pre-departure formalities.

According to officials, a total of 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh will perform Hajj this year. To ensure medical support, a 171-member medical team has already arrived in Saudi Arabia.

Authorities have made the ‘Nusuk Card’ mandatory for all pilgrims this year. The card will provide access to essential services throughout the pilgrimage. Pilgrims traveling under private arrangements will receive the card in Bangladesh, while those under government management will collect it upon arrival at their hotel lobbies in Saudi Arabia.

Officials expressed hope that all arrangements have been completed to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage for Bangladeshi pilgrims.

END/SMA/AJ