40,000 Pakistani intending pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

40,000 Pakistani intending pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD/MAKKAH, JUN 04 (DNA) — Over 40000 Pakistani intending pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia through 158 different flights.

According to a Radio Pakistan’s reports from Makkah, out of these 13095 have arrived in Makkah after completing their eight-day stay at Madinah while others have been accommodated in Madinah Munawwarah.

These numbers also include 1000 hajj pilgrims who arrived in Saudi Arabia under private hajj scheme through 18 hajj group operators. According to the spokesperson of Ministry of Religious Affairs, Muhammad Umar Butt the Ministry’s monitoring team has completed the assessment of 12 hajj group operators.

He said arrangements are being made to provide the sacrifice coupons for the pilgrims at their accommodations. Umar Butt said 522 Moavineen including medical mission is present in Saudi Arabia to assist pilgrims in every possible manner.

Out of these 334 are deputed at Makkah, 172 at Madinah while 19 at Jeddah Airport. It is pertinent to mention that this is first full force Hajj after 2019 in which around 17,9,000 Pakistani pilgrims will participate.

Meanwhile, in a media interview, Secretary Religious Affairs Dr Aftab Akbar Durrani on Sunday said in an effort to strengthen the reputation of Pakistan, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony had made exemplary arrangements for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

He said Pakistani pilgrims, showcasing their best behavior in the host country, had also demonstrated resilience in the face of difficult circumstances. The secretary of Religious Affairs urged the pilgrims and their relatives to remain vigilant against negative propaganda.

He, highlighting the significance of this Hajj season, said Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Senator Muhammad Talha Mehmood, acknowledged the challenges associated with accommodating a large number of Muslims around the world. Nevertheless, the minister reiterated his commitment to serving the pilgrims without any political, religious, or regional bias, he added.

However, despite the efforts of the Pakistani government, certain elements were engaged in spreading fake news and causing distress and anxiety among the pilgrims and their loved ones back in Pakistan, he said, adding that investigations had revealed that this propaganda aimed to sabotage the excellent relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, impede the government’s Hajj efforts, and even exploit social media to gain unwarranted privileges.

Dr Aftab said the Ministry had been proactive in ensuring the well-being of Pakistani pilgrims, adding that Moavineen-e-Hujjaj were present throughout the Hajj journey, providing guidance and assistance to the pilgrims while closely monitoring the situation.

He made it clear that instances of individuals laying mats on the roadside for personal gain had been promptly captured and shared on social media to expose such misconduct. “These individuals not only disrupt the administration’s efforts but also bring disrepute to the country,” he added.

The Secretary of Religious Affairs further urged the public not to be swayed by negative propaganda and assured them of the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to providing the best facilities for Pakistani pilgrims despite the challenges.

He also emphasized the importance of following the instructions of Hajj assistants and Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth and trouble-free pilgrimage experience.

He said Pakistani pilgrims were recognized as ambassadors of the country in Saudi Arabia, and their exemplary behavior and resilience in the face of difficulties had contributed to the nation’s prestige.

The Ministry continued to work tirelessly to support the pilgrims, urging them to utilize available facilities responsibly and foster friendly relationships with fellow pilgrims to fully embrace the blessings of Hajj, he maintained. — DNA