Addressing a news conference on Tuesday, District Congress Committee Vice-President Ivan D’Souza said that it was only due to the interest of Central government and efforts of Congress leaders that the first direct flight for Haj could be realised.

As many as 113 people will fly from Mangalore on October 25. The facility can be availed by the pilgrims from Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada and Kodagu districts.

Passport office

He said that Minister for Law M Veerappa Moily has promised that long standing demand for full-fledged passport office will be a reality soon as the Centre has decided to discuss the matter during the next cabinet meeting.

With regard to the new terminal, he said that the new terminal will be inspected on November 1 and it is likely to be inaugurated in December. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will inaugurate the new terminal, he informed. Leaders Moideen Bava, Ibrahim Kodijal, B H Khader among others were present on the occasion.