With the intention of assisting pilgrims during the approaching Ashura period, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has started a series of special flights to the Iraqi city of Najaf.
Dubbed “Operation Ashura,” the operation started on July 5 and is slated to continue with two additional flights on July 7 and July 11.
In addition to transporting pilgrims to Najaf, PIA’s dedicated planes will guarantee a seamless return for them. The pilgrims from Najaf are expected to be brought back by planes on July 21 and July 25, starting on July 20.
The goal of “Operation Ashura” is to give pilgrims a smooth travel experience at this important time of religious observance. The program demonstrates PIA’s dedication to meeting the needs of its customers and assisting them on their spiritual journeys.
Pakistan celebrates the Ashura holidays
The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s ruling on the Muharram moon sighting will determine the precise dates of the Ashura celebrations. Muharram 1 falls on July 7 if the moon is visible in the evening of July 6. As a result, Ashura will be observed on Monday and Tuesday, July 15 and 16. In this case, July 15 and 16 will also be public holidays.
Alternatively, Ashura will be observed on July 16 and 17 if the Islamic year begins on July 8. As a result, July 16 and 17, which are Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively, would become public holidays.
