In a welcome move, Senator Talha Mehmood, the Religious Affairs Minister, has declared that the Ministry of Religious Affairs will be providing a substantial refund of Rs. 12 million to Pakistani pilgrims who participated in this year’s Hajj through the government-sponsored scheme.
Thanks to effective cost-saving measures, tens of thousands of pilgrims will receive a partial refund of Rs. 97,000 directly into their bank accounts next week. Additionally, special provisions will be made for those who encountered difficulties securing accommodations in Madinah or had to stay far from central locations, as well as for those who were unable to avail of the train facility.
The Hajj operation, conducted by the government, will conclude next week, with more than 160,000 Pakistanis having successfully completed the most sacred journey of their lives. Looking ahead, the quota for the next year has already been set at 179,210 pilgrims.
Senator Talha Mehmood expressed disappointment with private Hajj operators who failed to deliver the promised services and charged exorbitant amounts. The government is committed to taking appropriate actions based on the complaints received to address these issues. He further reiterated the government’s dedication to reducing the overall cost of Hajj and ensuring the well-being of all pilgrims.
Under the Hajj package, the government has allocated approximately Rs. 16.5 billion to extend financial assistance to the pilgrims, ensuring that the religious journey remains accessible and affordable for all eligible individuals.
This move by the government reflects a strong commitment to facilitating and supporting the spiritual journey of Pakistani citizens, and it is hoped that such measures will continue to enhance the experience for future Hajj pilgrims.
