Hyderabad: The state govt has begun preparations for Haj 2026, with chief minister A Revanth Reddy directing officials to ensure comprehensive arrangements for pilgrims departing from Hyderabad.Officials said all departments concerned have been asked to avoid any shortcomings in facilities at the Haj camp and during travel.Addressing a press conference at Haj House on Saturday, Telangana State Haj Committee chairman Maulana Syed Shah Ghulam Afzal Biabani Khusru Pasha said efforts are on to ensure smooth travel and accommodation for pilgrims. He said the chief minister reviewed the arrangements and stressed that pilgrims should not face inconvenience.The Haj committee outlined key logistical measures for the pilgrimage season. Pilgrims will be transported from Haj House to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in air-conditioned buses. Each pilgrim will be allowed two check-in bags with a combined weight of up to 40 kg, along with a 7 kg hand bag.Departures from Hyderabad are scheduled to begin on May 4, with the final batch expected to leave on May 21. Each flight from RGIA is likely to carry around 430 pilgrims.The chairman added that the Haj Committee of India will provide smartwatches to pilgrims to aid navigation and communication. Referring to the recent airfare hike, he said the Telangana govt has urged the Centre to reconsider the additional Rs 10,000 charge linked to rising fuel costs.
