Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced in the National Assembly that the government has banned overland travel for Arbaeen pilgrims along the 800km Quetta route due to serious terrorism risks. Instead, direct flights from Quetta to Iran and Iraq have been authorized, with one flight already operational. The Balochistan government is pushing for at least one daily flight, possibly two, to accommodate the large number of pilgrims.
To further ease travel, the government has permitted private airlines and chartered flights to operate on the route, with advertisements inviting carriers over the past four days. Khawaja Asif emphasized that these measures aim to maximize safety while ensuring pilgrims reach their destinations without road travel hazards. Onward transportation from Iranian and Iraqi airports to holy sites has also been arranged.
During recent talks with Iran, an additional flight was approved to facilitate Pakistani pilgrims following the Iranian president’s visit. The minister assured that all possible steps are being taken for smooth and secure travel, urging private operators to utilize the permissions granted.
“The government is fully committed to providing safe, comfortable, and timely travel for all Arbaeen pilgrims,” Asif stated, addressing concerns over past attacks on pilgrim convoys. With road routes deemed too dangerous, the shift to air travel reflects Islamabad’s efforts to balance religious obligations with security imperatives.