QR-coded suitcases to ensure pilgrims’ safety

Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-Faith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, on Tuesday announced the finalization of the Hajj policy for 2024. The policy's approval will soon be sought from the federal cabinet, a process anticipated to be completed within the next 10 days. This updated policy aims to streamline the journey to the holy land and provide much-needed relief to pilgrims, introducing several innovative initiatives.

Minister Ahmed emphasized that the new policy encompasses a shorter duration for the Hajj journey, condensing it to a 40-day pilgrimage.

Read also: New Hajj policy to offer shorter stays in holy land

One of the notable enhancements is the implementation of a system to ensure the safety of pilgrims, preventing any incidents of individuals going missing during the pilgrimage. Pilgrims will now receive two suitcases of a specific color and design, featuring information about the pilgrims in the form of a QR code. These suitcases will prominently display the pilgrims' names, passport numbers, residential addresses, and other essential details.

Furthermore, the minister highlighted a significant development that will enable worshippers to stay in touch with their families in Pakistan. A special mobile package priced at Rs4,000 has been negotiated with a telecom company in Saudi Arabia. This exclusive mobile package will empower pilgrims to make audio and video calls on their mobile phones without incurring exorbitant roaming charges.