All is set for the smooth take off of pilgrims from Tamale to Mecca for this year’s Hajj journey.
A total number of two thousand, eight hundred (2,800), prospective pilgrims are expected to be airlifted from the Tamale International airport in the Northern region.
The first flight is expected to take off Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at 1pm with a total number of four hundred and ninety two (492), would-be-pilgrims.
A visit by GBC’s Northern Regional Correspondent to the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium which happens to be the Hajj village reports that preparations are advanced ahead of Wednesday’s journey.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makka, Saudi Arabia, the Holy city for Muslims.
It is a mandatory religious duty that must be carried out at least once in the lifetime of all adult Muslims who are physically fit to undertake the Hajj activities.
Pilgrims scheduled for the first batch have started arriving at the Aliu Mahama Sports stadium when Radio Ghana visited the venue.
Joint security personnel have been detailed to the inner parameters to ensure stability and peaceful atmosphere throughout the event.
Member of the Regional Communication of the Hajj Board, Alhaji Haruna Eliasu has issued a stern warning to prospective pilgrims from carrying contraband goods to Makkah since Saudi Officials will not take it kindly with offenders.
Alhaji Eliasu allayed fears of any possible challenges that will mar tomorrow’s journey and assured that every prospective pilgrim will be airlifted.
Alhaji Eliasu said all Hajj agents and their members have duly been scheduled to avoid overcrowding.
According to him, there is an advance team already in Makkah as well as a special security task force that will be on board the first flight to ensure pilgrims are well catered for and their security assured.
Story filed by Joyce Kantam Kolamong