Ministry of Religious Affairs Secretary Dr Ataur Rehman held a press conference on Monday to provide updates and innovations regarding the upcoming Hajj programme. Addressing various concerns, he clarified misconceptions and outlined key details for this year's pilgrimage.
He announced that the official mobile phone application 'Pak Hajj' must be used by every pilgrim, adding that all the pilgrims will be contacted and complaints will also be recorded through the application. He further said that free SIM cards will be given to pilgrims from Pakistan, through which calls will be made with mobile data.
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Dr. Rehman debunked the notion that the number of pilgrims under the government scheme was inadequate, asserting that 69,000 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Hajj under the official scheme, with details for the private scheme to be disclosed soon. He emphasized that the ministry had made early preparations for Hajj this year.
Acknowledging concerns about the rising costs associated with Hajj, Dr. Rehman revealed that inflation had caused prices of everything to escalate. He further said Rs100,000 less had been received this year as compared to the last. He further announced several changes introduced for this year's Hajj, including a shorter duration of 20 to 25 days.
"Air ticket for the short Hajj will cost Rs55,000 to Rs60,000 more," Dr Rehman said, adding that the cost would reduce over sharing of a room with another person. He also said that Pakistani pilgrims will be allowed to carry two bags of the same colour.
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He also announced that officers below 45 years of age from grades 7 to 18 will serve as khudaam during Hajj, while the assistants will be monitored through the Hajj app. Moreover, he said Rs150 million had been saved by purchasing medicines and vaccines on time.
The ministry has also implemented the use of QR codes to safeguard pilgrims' belongings. Moreover, Dr. Rehman mentioned the successful facilitation of the Road to Makkah program in both Islamabad and Karachi, which will expedite immigration procedures for Pakistani pilgrims. Saudi officials will conduct immigration at Islamabad and Karachi airports, ensuring a smooth experience for pilgrims.
