A three-day training session for intending Hajj pilgrims has started at the Haji Camp in the megalopolis with an aim to provide comprehensive information about various rituals of the annual pilgrimage.
This year marks a significant milestone as all intending pilgrims from Pakistan will receive biometrics and activated mobile phone SIM cards for the first time on the initiative launched by the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Similarly, train service will also be provided to facilitate Hujjaj in Saudi Arabia.
Accommodation within a distance of 100 to 500 metres from Masjid-e-Nabawi will be offered to pilgrims.
Moreover, for the first time, intending pilgrims departing from Karachi airport will get benefits under the 'Road to Makkah project', eliminating the long immigration queues in Saudi Arabia. Hajj equipment booking will also be arranged from Karachi.
Ahmad Nadeem Khan, the Hajj Training in-charge, inaugurated the three-day training programme at the Haji Camp in Sultanabad on Saturday. A large number of intending pilgrims attended the comprehensive training, where they were informed about Hajj rituals, places, and the mobile app 'Nusuk' developed for Hajj affairs.
Ahmed Nadeem Khan, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs responsible for Hajj training, referred to a reduction in the cost of Hajj this year.
While speaking to The Express Tribune, Khan mentioned the strategic location of the accommodation in Medina, enabling pilgrims to reach Masjid-e-Nabawi within minutes.
He explained that in the past pilgrims had to negotiate with local cellular companies in Saudi Arabia for communication. However, this year, each pilgrim will receive a Ufone SIM, to be activated after biometrics in Pakistan, allowing communication for 48 days.
Female pilgrims will receive head scarves adorned with the Pakistani flag, while male Pilgrims will be provided with Ahram belts. Each pilgrim will also receive two bags each, one for essentials such
as water bottles and shoes. Imtiaz Shah, Hajj Director Karachi, stated that training sessions at Haji Camp and near National Stadium will continue until April 30, catering to intending pilgrims from various districts.
It is estimated that 16,200 pilgrims will depart from Karachi under the government scheme, along with 750 from Sukkur and 2,200 from Quetta. A dispensary will be opened for 10 days before the departure to address vaccination and medication needs, and stalls at the Haji Camp will cater to
pilgrims' requirements, including Ahram and travel necessities.
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