Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, announced that Hajj flight operations under the government scheme are expected to begin from April 29. He shared the details during a press conference at the Haji Camp in Lahore.
Under the official Hajj scheme, 90,000 Pakistanis will perform Hajj this year. The minister also held a key meeting with his Saudi counterpart to ensure the provision of facilities for Pakistani pilgrims. He said preparations, including vaccination and training, are well underway.
Hajj training sessions are set to commence from April 8, and pilgrims are being briefed about all necessary health protocols, including vaccination requirements.
The Hajj package cost has been Rs1,150,000 for short-term pilgrims and Rs1,050,000 for long-term pilgrims.
Addressing concerns over misconduct during pilgrimage, the minister stated that strict action has been taken against individuals deported for begging. He also clarified that Umrah visas are usually suspended ahead of the Hajj season to streamline pilgrimage operations.
