Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita said the government is taking steps to ensure a hassle-free journey for Hajj pilgrims, as authorities coordinate efforts to manage one of the country’s largest annual travel operations.

Speaking to reporters after inaugurating a local sports program at Manikganj’s Shahid Miraj-Tapon Stadium on Saturday evening, the minister said the civil aviation and religious affairs ministries are working closely to make this year’s pilgrimage successful.

“Most of the pilgrims have already reached Saudi Arabia safely, and the rest will arrive as scheduled,” she said.

Rita acknowledged pressure on flight capacity, noting that the government is planning to procure new aircraft to meet growing demand from travellers.

She also said that the long-awaited third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is expected to be inaugurated by the end of the year, with discussions between Bangladesh and Japan in their final stages.

On the issue of renaming the airport, the minister said there is currently no government plan to change its existing name, adding that any such decision would depend on public demand and the prime minister’s directive.

Source: BSS