The Saudi government has accepted Pakistan’s request to extend the Road-to-Makkah project to Lahore and Karachi airports, providing enhanced facilities for pilgrims. This information was shared by senior officials from the Ministry of Haj during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

The committee welcomed the initiative and suggested the expansion of the Road-to-Makkah project to include Peshawar and Quetta airports. Currently, the project is operational only from Islamabad airport.

The meeting also delved into discussions regarding the reduction of Haj group organisers from 905 to 46, following directives from the Saudi government through the Ministry of Haj. Officials informed the committee that a letter has been sent to the Saudi government, seeking a deferral of the reduction for the current year and proposing a gradual reduction in subsequent years. The ministry awaits a response from the Saudi government.

Representatives from the Haj Organizers Association of Pakistan were present during the meeting, highlighting the need for constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and officials from the Saudi Ministry of Haj to address concerns.

The committee acknowledged the challenging nature of altering the Saudi Ministry of Haj’s decision to reduce the number of organisers. Despite this, the committee stressed the importance of thorough preparation for upcoming Haj arrangements.

The committee chairman emphasized ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and proposed conveying Pakistan’s concerns to Saudi authorities, requesting a review of their decision. A decision was made to send another letter to the Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the caretaker minister for religious affairs was suggested to engage with his Saudi counterpart to advocate for Pakistan’s position. The committee requested a progress report on the matter within 15 days.

Key Points:

1. Expansion of Road-to-Makkah Project: The Saudi government has approved the extension of the Road-to-Makkah project to Lahore and Karachi airports, responding to Pakistan’s request to enhance facilities for pilgrims.

2. Committee’s Approval: The Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony welcomed the initiative and recommended expanding the project to include Peshawar and Quetta airports.

3. Reduction of Haj Group Organisers: Discussions took place regarding the reduction of Haj group organisers from 905 to 46, following Saudi directives. A letter has been sent to the Saudi government seeking a deferral of the reduction for the current year.

4. Concerns and Dialogue: Representatives from the Haj Organizers Association stressed the need for constructive dialogue between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Saudi officials to address concerns related to the reduction of organisers.

5. Thorough Preparation: The committee emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for upcoming Haj arrangements, acknowledging the challenges in altering the Saudi Ministry of Haj’s decision.

The decision to expand the Road-to-Makkah project reflects efforts to provide improved facilities and convenience for pilgrims, aligning with the ongoing commitment to enhance the Haj experience.