Dr. Acting Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed has issued an important announcement aimed at promoting and enhancing the pilgrimage experience of pilgrims in Pakistan. Stating that the government will significantly reduce government expenditure on Hajj by Rs 100,000 crore, he asserted that the reduction will not compromise the quality of facilities provided to pilgrims. Among the notable provisions is that all pilgrims are given a baggage allowance of 30 kg, which is practically increased. In addition to their journey, pilgrims are presented with a headscarf (abaya) emblazoned with the national flag for the first time, a symbolic act.
A mobile application has been launched to further assist pilgrims in their journey. The app was initially available in English and Urdu languages but later it will support different regional languages. Its purpose is to provide maritime assistance and to establish constant communication between the pilgrims and the authorities concerned.
As part of ongoing efforts to streamline the Hajj process, Islamabad and Karachi have been included in the Saudi Arabia Mecca road project. This strategic commitment enables Karachi Airport to handle the arrival of pilgrims and facilitate their journey.
To facilitate economic access to Hajj, the government has introduced short Hajj packages lasting up to 20 days. Tent accommodation was also arranged for Pakistani pilgrims in Old Mina to meet the challenge of distance from New Mina.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has allocated 179,000 Hajj places, half of which are reserved for private pilgrims. To ensure the welfare of pilgrims, the ministry supervises these private operators and is responsible for any problems faced by pilgrims.
Dr. Ahmed also highlighted the renovation work of the Haji Camp buildings in Karachi and stressed his determination to continuously improve the facilities for the Hajis. It is important to note that the declared package does not include the expenses of the sacrifice during the Hajj and the expenses of those who choose to stay for a short time in the Hajj. Madinah gets a further discount of Rs 35000 for Hajj. Taken together, these initiatives represent a concerted effort to enhance the travel experience of Pakistani pilgrims through a variety of practical and symbolic means.
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