Mumbai’s Second Haj House to Rise in Kharghar Soon

Mumbai is gearing up for a major infrastructure addition that promises to transform the experience of Haj pilgrims from Maharashtra and beyond. As the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) nears operational readiness, the city is set to get its second Haj House, to be located in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai.

According to an official press release from the Press Information Bureau (PIB) under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the new Haj House project has been formally approved and will soon take shape near the upcoming airport — a move aimed at offering seamless transit, accommodation, and support services to Haj pilgrims.

The project represents a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to modernize pilgrimage-related infrastructure and enhance facilities for India’s Muslim community.

The Existing Haj House: A Legacy Since 1987

To understand the importance of this development, it’s essential to look at the existing Haj House in Mumbai — a facility that has served generations of pilgrims for nearly four decades.

Constructed in 1987, the 19-story Haj House stands tall near the JJ Flyover in the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) area. Managed by the Haj Committee of India (HCoI), it has long functioned as the central hub for all Haj-related activities in the region.

The existing Haj House is not merely a boarding point for pilgrims; it’s a full-fledged transit and administrative center. Here, pilgrims receive lodging, meals, and comprehensive logistical support, including assistance with visa processing, passport verification, and health checkups.

Additionally, the Haj House conducts orientation sessions for first-time pilgrims, helping them understand the rituals, responsibilities, and travel protocols associated with the sacred journey to Mecca.

But the building’s role extends beyond pilgrimage services. It also houses the headquarters of the Haj Committee of India and includes a Coaching and Guidance Cell — a program designed to support the wider Muslim community through educational initiatives and competitive exam preparation.

The Kharghar Haj House: A Modern Hub for Future Pilgrims

The new Haj House in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, is being developed to complement the existing facility and serve the growing number of pilgrims from Maharashtra and neighboring states.

According to the Ministry of Minority Affairs, this new center will stand as a state-of-the-art transit and service facility, strategically located near the Navi Mumbai International Airport. The location is expected to drastically reduce travel time and ease logistical challenges for pilgrims departing from Mumbai.

During a recent high-level visit, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, personally inspected the proposed Kharghar site. He was accompanied by senior officials from the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) and the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).

The inspection focused on reviewing the architectural layout, design blueprints, and execution timeline of the upcoming structure. Dr. Kumar also held detailed discussions with the concerned authorities to ensure the facility’s design addresses every aspect of pilgrim welfare — from accommodation and transport connectivity to administrative support.

Ensuring Seamless Connectivity and Infrastructure

One of the primary considerations during the site inspection was connectivity. With the Navi Mumbai International Airport expected to become a major aviation hub in western India, the proximity of the new Haj House is strategic.

Officials reviewed logistical routes, road access, and public transport options to ensure that the facility is easily reachable from both the airport and major urban centers.

According to sources, the new Haj House will be designed to offer comprehensive services under one roof — including accommodation, documentation, orientation, and health screenings. The emphasis is on efficiency, comfort, and accessibility for every pilgrim, regardless of age or background.

Preparations for Haj 2026 Underway

The Kharghar Haj House project is not an isolated development. It forms part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen infrastructure and planning for Haj 2026.

Before visiting Kharghar, Dr. Kumar chaired a review meeting in Mumbai with representatives from the HCoI, CPWD, and the Government of Maharashtra. The meeting was centered on evaluating existing facilities and ensuring timely readiness for future Haj operations.

Discussions included conducting a structural audit of the current Haj House at CST and identifying areas that require renovation and modernization.

Dr. Kumar emphasized seamless coordination between agencies, ensuring that all stakeholders — from central authorities to state bodies — work in tandem to guarantee a safe, efficient, and comfortable pilgrimage experience for all Indian pilgrims.

Focus on Minority Welfare Schemes and Inclusive Development

Beyond the physical construction of new facilities, the review meeting also evaluated the progress of key minority welfare initiatives under the Ministry’s purview.

Two major schemes came under focus:

Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) – A centrally sponsored scheme aimed at providing infrastructure and basic amenities in areas with significant minority populations.
Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) – A newer initiative focusing on skill development, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation among India’s minority communities.

Dr. Kumar underscored the importance of timely implementation, optimal resource utilization, and tangible outcomes that directly benefit people at the grassroots.

These initiatives, he noted, reflect the government’s broader vision of inclusive growth and community empowerment, in line with the principles of equity and national development.

Government’s Commitment to Strengthening Haj Infrastructure

The establishment of a second Haj House in Mumbai underscores the Union Government’s long-term vision of improving the pilgrimage ecosystem in India.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that pilgrims have access to modern, well-equipped, and easily accessible facilities that cater to their spiritual and logistical needs.

In recent years, efforts have been made to digitize the Haj application process, streamline visa documentation, and introduce training programs for first-time pilgrims. The Kharghar project adds another dimension to these reforms — by providing physical infrastructure that matches global standards.

A Boost for Navi Mumbai’s Growth and Community Services

The decision to establish the new Haj House in Kharghar is also expected to give a boost to Navi Mumbai’s development. As NMIA gears up for operations, the region is rapidly transforming into a key logistical and commercial hub.

The presence of the Haj House will not only serve pilgrims but also create employment opportunities and community service platforms in and around the area.

Officials believe this project aligns with the broader development goals under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav — celebrating India’s progress and commitment to inclusive national growth.

The Road Ahead

While the project is still in its planning and execution phase, the government’s proactive approach indicates that construction will begin soon, with timelines being finalized after final technical and environmental clearances.

Once operational, the Kharghar Haj House will stand as a modern testament to India’s commitment to serving its diverse communities — combining tradition, technology, and infrastructure to make the spiritual journey of Haj more accessible and dignified for thousands of pilgrims every year.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies