Afghanistan Prepares Islam Qala Crossing for 15,000 Arbaeen Pilgrims

DID Press: Authorities in western Afghanistan have established a joint Arbaeen Committee to coordinate the departure of an estimated 15,000 Afghan pilgrims traveling to Iraq through the Islam Qala Border Crossing, aiming to streamline border procedures and provide comprehensive services during the annual pilgrimage.

According to Mohammad Qasim Akhundzada, the committee operates under the supervision of the Directorate of Information and Culture of Herat and includes representatives from the foreign affairs, transport, public health, border commission, police, passport, intelligence, and tourism and pilgrimage sectors.

Akhundzada said committee members have conducted on-site inspections at the Islam Qala border crossing to assess transit routes, entry and exit gates, and passenger facilities. Technical teams have also adopted measures aimed at accelerating border procedures and improving services for pilgrims.

Officials estimate that more than 15,000 Afghan pilgrims will depart through the Islam Qala crossing during this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Meanwhile, Herat’s transport authorities said agreements have been signed with three major overland transport companies to ensure the organized movement of pilgrims to the border.

Health officials in Herat also announced that medical teams and ambulances have been placed on standby along the main transit route leading to the border crossing to provide emergency assistance if needed.