Jumbangla Desk: After more than four decades, discussions on the plan of Hajjatra by sea have started again in Bangladesh. The Ministry of Religion has taken the initiative to introduce sea route as an alternative to air route, which is a step taken to reduce the cost of Hajj pilgrims. However, it has some advantages and disadvantages, which pilgrims should consider.

Hajj

Advantages of Hajj by sea: Significant cost savings: The cost of Hajj by sea is expected to be about 40 percent less than by air.

In this, many people who are not financially able to perform Hajj will be able to take this opportunity. As the current cost of Haj is increasing day by day, Panipat can become a cost effective option.
Comfortable journey: Traveling by sea allows passengers to travel relatively comfortably. There will also be opportunities to rest on long journeys.

The ship's amenities and scenic sea views will make the trip enjoyable.
Eco-Friendly Travel: Traveling by ship is less harmful to the environment than by air. Ships have less carbon emissions, thus helping the environment. This is an important benefit when it comes to climate change and environmental issues.

Opportunity to carry more passengers: A large ship can carry a large number of passengers simultaneously. This will enable more people to be transported to Hajj at the same time, which can be cost effective and efficient as compared to air travel. As a result, the pressure will decrease with the increase in the number of passengers.

Time Management: Due to modern technology, the time of sea journey has been greatly reduced. Where earlier it used to take 28 days, now it has come down to half, where it will be possible to travel in 8 days for a total of 16 days. It will save time.

Disadvantages of Hajj by sea: Long journey: While it can be reached by air in just a few hours, the journey by sea is much longer. It will take passengers 16 days to go and return, which is quite long compared to air travel. So the journey of this period may become difficult for many.

Maritime Risks: Traveling by sea can be risky. Adverse weather conditions, storms or other maritime problems may interrupt the voyage. It can cause physical and mental stress for passengers.

Medical and Safety Issues: Medical and safety measures for passengers during long voyages may be limited compared to air travel. This can be a big challenge especially for elderly or sick passengers. Access to emergency medical care can also be reduced due to sea conditions en route.

Seasickness: Many passengers can suffer from seasickness on long sea voyages. This can make traveling more difficult and an uncomfortable experience for many.

Voyage Schedules: Voyage schedules by sea may be less flexible than by air. The ship has to leave on time and if there is any delay it will also depend on the sea weather. So scheduling complexity can be a problem for many.

It can be an important option considering the pros and cons of Hajj to Panipat. The cost-cutting aspect is particularly desirable, but long voyages and maritime risks must be taken into account. More modern ships and service systems should be ensured to ensure comfort, safety and overall experience of pilgrims. Source: Voice of Time.