First batch of Hajis leave for Mecca

The first batch of Hajis today left for Mecca with the government saying it had taken adequate measures for the pilgrimage, including steps to address swine flu related concerns and further expansion of compensation in case of accidents.

Flagging off the first batch of 200 pilgrims at the airport here, external affairs minister SM Krishna said computers have been set up at various locations to enable them to keep in touch with their relatives in the country.

Krishna said the coverage of cash and baggage loss cases under Accident Compensation Scheme, which was introduced during Haj 2004, would continue and has been further expanded.

He said the government has also taken adequate measures to address concerns arising out of spread of swine flu. "Our medical mission in Saudi Arabia has been fully geared up to address any health related requirement and will be working closely with the state health authorities."

Krishna said that government has paid close attention to the arrangements made in India and Saudi Arabia to facilitate the pilgrimage.

About 1.64lakh Indians would be undertaking Haj this year out of which 1.15 lakh would be going through the Haj Committee of India and rest through private operators during the one-month period.