AI to deliver baggage, zam Zam water of Hajis on time

New Delhi, Jan 16 (UNI) Expressing regret over delays and inconveniences caused to Haj pilgrims, Air India today said it would deliver their baggage and the Zam Zam water within the shortest possible time.

The assurance was given during a meeting called by Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel to review the on-going second phase of the Haj-2007 operations.

Mr Patel suggested that Air India should go in for a long-term lease of wide-bodied aircraft to ensure timely availability of a suitable aircraft to the pilgrims as well as to bring down the cost of Haj operations.

The meeting was attended by Mr Iqbal Ahmed Saradgi, Chairman, Haj Committe of India, Civil Aviation Secretary Ashok Chawla and Air India CMD V Thulasidas, among others.

The meeting noted with concern the delays in the arrival of Saudi Arabian Airlines and Air India flights carrying the Hajis on their return journey from Saudi Arabia.

It was also noted that there had been delays in the delivery of baggage and constraints in carrying the Zam Zam water.

It was decided that Air India would, within 24 hours, notify a detailed schedule indicating the plan for delivery of the baggage and Zam Zam water, including the backlog.

A date-wise and destination-wise plan will be drawn up, which will be furnished to the Civil Aviation Ministry and the Haj Committee of India.

The plan will be displayed at all the disembarkation points for widest possible dissemination to the Haj pilgrims to minimise inconvenience.

It was also decided that the Ministry would coordinate with the Saudi Arabian Airlines to facilitate the drawing up of a similar plan for delivery of baggage and Zam Zam water.

Likewise, CGI, Jeddah would also be requested to facilitate the transportation of the remaining Haj pilgrims along with their baggage and Zam Zam water.

Mr Patel also suggested certain remedial measures for the smooth and orderly conduct of future Haj operations.

UNI YJ SW KP1817