The Ministry had started collecting applications from across the country through 4,686 designated bank branches of Allied Bank Limited, Habib Bank Limited, Muslim Commercial Bank, National Bank of Pakistan, United Bank Limited and Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited and First Women Bank on April 15.

This year, around 90,000 pilgrims will perform the religious obligation under the government scheme, while the same number of aspirants will be sent to Saudi Arabia through private Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs).

Last date for submitting the applications is May 10. Applicants are being entertained on "first-come and first-served" basis as there will be no balloting this year to ensure transparency in the entire process.

The sources said that a great rush was expected to be witnessed during the next few days at the designated bank branches as it seemed that the required number of applications will be received before the last date.

The Ministry has yet to receive less than 40,000 applications, while 17 days are left in expiry of the final date.