From tracking applications to arranging transport, everything is now online.
PHOTO: AFP
From tracking applications in Pakistan to arranging transport in Makkah, everything is now a click away in an online portal developed by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB).
Hajj 2016: Govt intends to use trackers for pilgrims
The earlier manual system for Hajj gave room to ministry and banks officials to favour their relatives in selection of their applications and even preferring better flights, residence and transport for them.
This year was different for people as they did not have to stress over their applications being hindered by corrupt practices. The automation of the entire process ensured transparency and selection of applications on merit by eliminating any chance of favouritism.
Selection process
Pilgrims were picked for the annual pilgrimage through e-balloting under the Hajj Management System, which was handed over to the religious affairs ministry by the PITB after imparting training to its officials and those of the banks. A total of 69,534 people were selected out of the 280,617 applicants.
The balloting took place on the day of the deadline of the applications and within half an hour all the successful pilgrims were informed about the status of their applications through SMS. Hajj camps were also monitored through the system to ensure people were vaccinated and trained for the pilgrimage.
Performing Hajj at state expense
PITB Training and Development Director Saima R Sheikh told The Express Tribune the system eliminated any chance of wrongdoing, as no one could go for Hajj by deceiving the system.
She added any pilgrim could also file complaints through the website of the religious affairs ministry during their stay in Saudi Arabia. In case a complaint is not resolved, it is automatically referred to the high-ups.
Saima said the Hajj Management System also resolved the issue of flight schedules once and for all. “Flights for all people going on the government’s package are now booked through the e-system,” she said.
Keeping checks
A process has also been put in place to keep a check on private organisers. Once the successful applicant’s data is entered in the system – a step which is mandatory before the application is filed, the operator cannot replace a person already selected by taking more money from someone else.
Besides, the PITB has also provided the government an Android app named ‘PakHajj Muavin’ for facilitating the pilgrims with ways to locations and other such particulars.
The religious affairs ministry used to employ a number of staffers only to schedule flights for the pilgrims. PITB Programme Manager Syed Nayyer Ali told The Express Tribune that one person can now manage the task of booking flights for all pilgrims through the Hajj Management System.
'Offensive question in Hajj applications will be amended'
About 140 buildings are booked to accommodate pilgrims going on the government’s package. This year, rooms at these hotels were allocated to pilgrims even before they departed from Pakistan. This alone has lessened four to five hours of travel duration of pilgrims as previously they had to wait for allocation of their rooms after reaching Saudi Arabia.
PITB Chairperson Dr Umar Saif said Hajj Management System was designed to streamline all the procedures and provide as much convenience to pilgrims as possible.
He added the Nigerian government, impressed by the smooth system, also requested the IT board to help them in setting up such a system. “We are ready to help them without any charge,” he said.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 21st, 2016.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ