The Pakistan Hajj Mission (PHM) has successfully welcomed 98,500 pilgrims in Madinah and Makkah since the commencement of the month-long pre-Hajj flight operation on May 9. This significant milestone includes pilgrims arriving under both government and private schemes.
Government and Private Schemes
According to Muhammad Umer Butt, the spokesman for the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, 62,500 pilgrims have arrived via 236 flights under the government scheme, while more than 36,000 pilgrims have arrived through private schemes. This year, a total of 160,000 Pakistani pilgrims are set to perform Hajj, with 70,000 under the government scheme and approximately 90,000 through private Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs).
Oversight and Management
The Pakistan Hajj Mission (PHM), under the supervision of the Director General (Hajj) and six directors heading different departments, is responsible for overseeing the overall Hajj operation in Saudi Arabia. The mission ensures the smooth facilitation of Hajj rituals for Pakistani pilgrims, providing essential services and support.
Medical Facilities
The PHM has established two central hospitals and a dozen dispensaries in the Haram area, staffed by 375 doctors and medical personnel. These facilities are equipped with modern medical amenities, including ambulances, laboratories, X-ray machines, ultrasound machines, ECG machines, minor operating theaters, and separate wards for men and women, ensuring comprehensive medical care for the pilgrims.
Support Services
A total of 511 Hajj Moavineen, comprising Pakistani civilians and uniformed personnel, are actively working to provide travel, accommodation, and food facilities to the pilgrims. Additionally, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has deployed 166 officers and supporting staff across various departments, including the main control room, Madinah and Jeddah airports, the lost and found department, the Madinah departure cell, the monitoring cell, and the accounts and administration departments.
Accommodation and Monitoring
The Director of Moavineen is overseeing the accommodation, food, and transportation arrangements for pilgrims in nine administrative sectors. The Ministry is also monitoring 902 private Hajj companies, which are responsible for around 90,000 pilgrims. Feedback is being collected from private sector pilgrims to ensure quality services. So far, 457 companies have been monitored, resulting in 85 complaints, of which 78 have been resolved.
Hajj Digitalization Initiative
Under the Ministry’s new initiative, ‘Hajj Digitalization,’ intending pilgrims are provided with all necessary information and guidance through the Pak Hajj Mobile App. This digital approach ensures prompt resolution of complaints and offers comprehensive support to pilgrims.
The Pakistan Hajj Mission’s diligent efforts and advanced planning aim to provide a seamless and fulfilling Hajj experience for all Pakistani pilgrims.
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