Bhopal loses Haj embarkation point tag, pilgrims to fly from Indore
Indore stands as the only departure point among 17 designated cities across India.
The direct Haj flight service from Bhopal to Saudi Arabia began in 2010. Pilgrims must now travel to Indore to access direct flights to Mecca-Medina, as it remains the sole departure point in the state. Approximately 8,500 people from the state undertook the Haj pilgrimage last year.
The revised arrangement particularly affects pilgrims from central and eastern Madhya Pradesh.
Residents from Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, and Hoshangabad districts, who previously benefited from Bhopal's accessibility, now face additional travel requirements. According to the State Haj Committee, nearly 2,000 pilgrims from Bhopal and neighbouring areas must now travel 200 kilometres to reach Indore. The total number of pilgrims from MP was 8,500.
This change increases both expenses and travel duration for pilgrims.
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Religious groups are convening to discuss alternative arrangements. "We have written to the higher authorities to continue Bhopal as the embarkation point," said the Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Haj Welfare Committee.
While Indore's designation ensures one departure point remains in Madhya Pradesh, its location presents travel difficulties for numerous state residents. Officials confirm that Indore airport's facilities have been upgraded to manage increased pilgrim numbers. The airport has implemented additional support services to handle the higher volume of departing pilgrims.
The Haj Committee plans to set up a helpdesk in Bhopal to support pilgrims, offering guidance about transport options and accommodation facilities in Indore.
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