KARACHI: Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs Dr. Aneeq Ahmed declared significant reduction of 0.1 million rupees in government Hajj expenses while ensuring uncompromised facilities.

Notably, pilgrims will receive 30 kg suitcase each and female pilgrims will receive scarfs (abaya) featuring national flag, first-time provision.

During news conference at Haji Camp here, Dr. Ahmed highlighted introduction of mobile application aimed at aiding pilgrims. This app will offer navigation assistance and keep pilgrims in constant contact with relevant officials. Initially available in English and Urdu, app will later include various regional languages.

Emphasising improvements in Hajj process, Dr. Ahmed revealed that Islamabad and Karachi have been incorporated into Saudi Arabia’s Road to Makkah project. This inclusion allows Karachi Airport to complete the immigration process for Hujjaj, streamlining their journey.

Moreover, government has introduced 20-day short Hajj package, striving to make Hajj more financially accessible to citizens. Efforts are underway to ensure Pakistani Hujjaj are accommodated in tents at Old Mina, as distance to New Mina poses challenges for pilgrims.

Highlighting allocation of Hajj seats, Dr. Ahmed mentioned that Pakistan has secured 179,000 Hajj seats, with half reserved for private Hajj operators. Ministry of Religious Affairs will oversee these operators to guarantee well-being of pilgrims, holding Ministry responsible for any issues faced by those performing Hajj through private operators.

Dr. Ahmed also noted ongoing renovation work at Haji Camp Karachi building, reinforcing commitment to enhance pilgrimage facilities. Regarding expenses, Dr. Aneeq clarified that announced package excludes qurbani (sacrifice) expenses during Hajj. Additionally, intending pilgrims opting for shorter stay in Medina will receive further reduction of Rs 35,000 in Hajj expenses.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 23 2023

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