Govt Hajj scheme pilgrims face Rs1.67 billion extra cost

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has further burdened Hajj pilgrims under the Hajj scheme offered by the Saudi Arabian Government, increasing their cost by a further Rs1.67 billion on increased air fares.

Now, the pilgrimage fare is also increased by an amount of 14,000. Therefore, the airline fare stands at Rs238,000, which is Rs224,000 last year.

The provision for travel services is offered by the PIA, Saudi Airlines, and two other private airlines. A total of 119,210 pilgrims are scheduled to undertake the Hajj ceremony through the government scheme.

According to the ministry, the increase in airline fares is based on an agreement reached with the airline companies to ensure that there are adequate flights for all pilgrims as well as organized travel. Pilgrims are urged to be ready for the increased fares and make their payments on time.