Short-term Haj facility introduced for pilgrims: minister

LAHORE: Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed has announced that this year’s Haj is set to be optimal for Pakistani pilgrims, offering unprecedented facilities.

He introduced a short-term Haj facility for the first time, marking a notable milestone in the nation’s history, the official news agency reported.

Addressing the start of the training session for pilgrims at Darul Haj Haji Camp on Wednesday, he announced that during Haj, all women would receive abayas, adorned with the Pakistani flag.

Selected through a transparent system, the minister said fortunate pilgrims were chosen via a draw, and their training began on February 12. He said that Haj pilgrims were the guests of Allah and true ambassadors of Pakistan, who would be facilitated with advance faculties.

He said when he took charge of the ministry, it was made clear that in 2024 Pakistani pilgrims would be provided with the best facilities. This year’s Haj would be exemplary for Pakistani pilgrims, offering facilities that were not available in the past.

The minister highlighted the comprehensive efforts made by the ministry regarding Haj arrangements, collaborating with Saudi Arabia during a visit to assess the facilities provided to pilgrims.

He mentioned that accommodations, meals, and transportation, along with all basic necessities had been standardised.

While discussing transportation facilities for Pakistani pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, he said that this year there would be provision of trains along with buses for them.

Responding to a question, the minister said that for the first time in the country’s history, a short-term Haj facility is being provided in Pakistan. Every pilgrim would be given a green suit-case containing a QR code to prevent any loss of belongings. The Haj pilgrims would also be provided with a free SIM containing 180 international calling minutes and 7GB data to facilitate easy communication with their loved-ones.

Aneeq Ahmed urged Haj pilgrims to pray for the well-being, prosperity, and elevation of the nation during the pilgrimage rituals.

Lahore Haj Director Iqrar Ahmad, Deputy Director Ministry of Religious Affairs Abdul Hakeem Khattak, Deputy Director Arif Zahoor, Deputy Assistant Director Mujeeb Akbar Shah, Tahir Latif and others were also present at the training session.