First group of pilgrims to go to Makkah today

Religious affairs minister says personally overseeing operation

MADINAH:

The first batch of 773 intending pilgrims, who have completed their eight-day stay in Madinah Munawwarah, is scheduled to depart for Makkah Mukarama on early Monday morning.

These pilgrims arrived in Madinah through three flights on May 21 and are now eagerly preparing to continue their sacred journey towards the holy city of Makkah.

The Pakistan Hajj Mission in Madinah takes proactive steps to support and guide them. Pilgrims are urged to avail themselves of the mission’s toll-free helpline at 800 11 666 22 for any assistance required throughout their pilgrimage.

With a commitment to ensuring a seamless and meaningful experience, the mission stands ready to address inquiries and provide essential aid to pilgrims, making their sacred journey as smooth as possible.

Additionally, contact information for Makkah Mukarama can be obtained at 02 5500426, for Jeddah at 02 6670980 and for Madinah Munawwarah at 04-8250789 and 04-8250782.

This year, a total of 179,200 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj. Out of this number, approximately 81,230 pilgrims will be partaking in Hajj under the government scheme, while the remaining individuals will be facilitated by private tour operators, as per the authorities’ arrangements.

The last flight carrying Pakistani pilgrims is scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia on June 21, according to the Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Meanwhile, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood said that he was personally overseeing the entire Hajj operation, ensuring its smooth execution through various channels.

Speaking at the final training session of Moavineen-e-Hujjaj (Pilgrims' Assistants) held at the Haji Camp Islamabad the other day, the minister informed attendees that he had taken proactive steps to address any concerns or complaints from the pilgrims.

To facilitate efficient communication, Senator Talha had distributed a WhatsApp number to all intending pilgrims, encouraging them to register any complaints they may have at any point during their spiritual journey.

Additionally, he revealed that he had personally funded the establishment of an online portal to receive and manage these complaints effectively.

The minister also made it clear that he would not tolerate any negligence or lethargic attitudes from the pilgrims' assistants.

APP