The government is likely to announce a new comprehensive Umrah policy in the next month for the facilitation of the pilgrims. "A four-member committee has devised a comprehensive policy for facilitation of pilgrims," said Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Ijaz-ul-Haq while speaking at a press conference here at Pakistan Muslim League House.
Highlighting the major aspects of the new Umrah policy, Haq said that it would allow much more benefits to the pilgrims.
The government is very well aware of the fact that people face lots of problems during the Haj and Umrah, he said adding that private tour operators have to improve their behaviour.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has taken prompt notice of the situation and directed the religious affairs ministry to also deal with the Umrah operations.
He said that the new policy mainly focuses on eradication of all kinds of hurdles in the way of the pilgrims during performing Umrah.
Speaking about the government's efforts during Haj, Ijaz-ul-Haq said that a record number of 0.15 million of Pakistani pilgrims performed Haj this year.
"We are proud to announce that around 0.15 million Pakistani pilgrims comfortably performed Haj this year which is a record", he added.
He informed the newsmen that about 150 Pakistani pilgrims died there due to natural death and all of them were 60 to 70 years old.
Giving details of the medical facilities for pilgrims, Haq said that a special 60-bed Hospital has been established in Mecca for healthcare of pilgrims. There more than 100 doctors along with paramedical staff of civil and army officials are offering medical services.
He further said that sum of 8.5 million was spent on medication during the Haj session while more than 424 apartments were hired for the pilgrims to provide them best living facility on their nearest spots.
The minister said that another scrutiny committee has been formed to take stock of the performance of tours operators companies.
He assured that stern action would be taken against those tour operators who have performed below the merit.
To a query, Ejaz said that a total of 357 Haj flights were arranged from Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore and all flights were landed according to scheduled time. The last flight carrying the pilgrims will land on the February 24, he added.
To another question, Ijaz said that applicants who were disqualified this year would be preferred next year.