In response to growing security concerns, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced on Tuesday that the federal government has authorised the Balochistan administration to operate direct flights from Quetta to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen pilgrims, following a ban on overland travel.
Addressing the National Assembly, the minister said the decision was made to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims heading to Iraq and Iran for Arbaeen. He noted that all relevant departments have been directed to provide comprehensive logistical support throughout the journey.
Asif explained that the government had imposed restrictions on road travel along the 800-kilometre route from Quetta due to serious security threats, including potential terrorist attacks on pilgrim convoys. To mitigate these risks, the federal government permitted direct air travel from Quetta, enabling pilgrims to bypass the hazardous route altogether.
He confirmed that at least one direct flight had already departed and expressed hope that more would follow—ideally two daily flights or at least a regular daily service to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. He added that necessary arrangements had also been made for onward transportation within Iran and Iraq, taking pilgrims from the airports to their respective religious sites.
The minister further shared that in the past four days, advertisements had been published inviting private airlines to operate on the route, and all licensed carriers had been granted permission to provide services. Chartered flights were also approved to expand capacity and ensure as many pilgrims as possible could travel safely.
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Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Asif mentioned that during the recent visit of the Iranian President to Pakistan, the matter had been raised, and Iran had agreed to allow an additional flight to facilitate the movement of Pakistani pilgrims.
Reassuring the public, he concluded, “I want to assure the House and the people of Pakistan that the government is fully committed to ensuring safe, comfortable, and timely transportation for all Arbaeen pilgrims.”