Dhaka: A total of 23,659 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims have returned home from Saudi Arabia as of Sunday following the completion of this year’s Hajj held on June 5. The return journey marks a significant logistical operation involving multiple airlines to ensure the safe return of the pilgrims.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a total of four flights are scheduled to operate today to bring back 822 pilgrims. These flights include one by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, one by Saudia Airlines, and two by Flynas Airlines. The Hajj office reported that out of the total pilgrims who returned, 4,176 were under government management, while 19,483 traveled through private travel agencies. A total of 60 flights facilitated their return, with 19 operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, 24 by Saudia Airlines, and 17 by Flynas Airlines.
Tragically, at least 29 Bangladeshi pilgrims passed away in Saudi Arabia during the Hajj, consisting of 25 males and 4 females. The deceased included 18 in Mecca, 9 in Medina, and one in Arafat. Fortunately, no deaths were reported in Jeddah, Mina, or Muzdalifah. The Hajj operations for this year began with the first outbound flight on April 29 and concluded on May 31, with return flights starting on June 10 and continuing until July 10.