The applications for Haj 2007 under government scheme would be invited from today till July 31. The applications would be received through designated bank branches of Habib Bank Limited (HBL), United Bank Limited (UBL), National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), Muslim Commercial Bank (MCB) and Allied Bank Limited (ABL), the officials said.
They said that mandatory requirement of computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) for filing of Haj applications will remain intact. No Haj application shall be entertained for repeat Haj, if the applicant has performed Haj during the last five years except in three cases Mahram of a lady who did not perform Haj earlier, group leader and Haj-e-Badal, they told.
They said that balloting would be held if the applications are received in excess of the seats available under government scheme.
Moreover, the applicants who have been unsuccessful in the ballot during last two years (ie Haj January 2006 and Haj December 2006) consecutively under government scheme should be declared successful without ballot, they said.
A total number of 1,59, 588 pilgrims will perform Haj this year from Pakistan.
Under the government scheme 79,500 and under private scheme 80,088 pilgrims would perform Haj. About the Haj fares, they said the airfare has been increased by 10% therefore, from Karachi/Quetta, Rs 38,500 would be charged while Rs 46,200 would be charged from other stations.
They said the total Haj dues under the white category at Karachi/Quetta are Rs 118,650 and other stations Rs 126,350 while under green category at Karachi/Quetta station Rs 130,750 would be charged while Rs 138,450 would be charged from the other stations.