Over 14,000 pilgrims returned as post Hajj flight operation continues: Minister

MADINA (APP): Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf says talks will be held with Saudi authorities to get an increase in Hajj quota for the next year on the basis of country’s population.

Talking to state-run Radio in Madina, the Minister said he will hold a formal meeting with his Saudi counterpart on the matter and the new census figures will be presented before him.

The Federal Minister expressed satisfaction over the overall arrangements made this year for the pilgrims in Makkah and Madina. He said the pilgrims themselves have appreciated the arrangements relating to transport, accommodation and food.

He said an amount of 250 riyal each is being returned to the pilgrims who were not provided with train tickets this year for movement between Mashaer. He said our arrangements have also been appreciated by the pilgrims of other countries including the UK and India.

The Minister said that the post Hajj flight operation has started which will be completed by 5th of next month.

Earlier, Deputy Director Hajj Farooq Rashid briefed the Minister about the arrangements made for Hujjaj in Madina. The Minister was informed that about fifty eight thousand Pakistani pilgrims who could not visit Madina before Hajj will visit the city to pay respect at Roza-e-Rasool.

The Minister directed that all the requirements of the visiting pilgrims should be met. The Minister was also informed that under the post Hajj flight operation, over fourteen thousand pilgrims have returned to their home.