Best arrangements made for 89,000 pilgrims performing Hajj this year: minister

The Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, has said that the government has made the best possible arrangements for Hajj pilgrims this year, Express News reported on Friday.

Speaking to reporters during a visit to the Haji Camp in Karachi, Yousuf said he was there to inspect training sessions for pilgrims. He added that ministry staff were on site to brief pilgrims and ensure they were well prepared for the journey.

According to the minister, 89,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj this year under the government scheme. He assured that all preparations had been finalised, with a special focus on providing maximum facilities and avoiding any inconvenience.

“The Prime Minister has directed me to personally ensure that pilgrims face no difficulties,” he said, adding that past experience between 2013 and 2018 had helped improve this year’s plan.

Yousuf stated that 21,600 pilgrims would depart from Karachi, with arrangements in Makkah and Aziziyah including good quality accommodation and split air conditioning. He said additional facilities like shelves and upgraded transport had also been included in the new agreements.

Each group of pilgrims would have a designated supervisor to resolve any problems on site, the minister confirmed.

Earlier, Saudi authorities had announced plans to establish resting areas for pilgrims at various points in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The decision was shared during a briefing to Prince Saud bin Mishaal, the Deputy Governor of Makkah, regarding preparations for the upcoming Hajj season.

Officials said 50,000 square metres of shaded walkways are being built for pedestrians in Mina, while 60,000 square metres of shelters and misting fans are being installed around Jabal al-Rahmah in Arafat.