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By Raziq Ali Shah
MAKKAH AL MUKARRAMAH, Jun 4 (APP): More or less 1.6 million pilgrims from around the world, including 115,000 Pakistanis, on Wednesday converged on the vast tent city of Mina for the five-day communion with their Creator, Allah Almighty, invoking His divine mercy and seeking forgiveness for their sins.
The sprawling tent city of Mina, situated just outside Makkah, marks the first stop for pilgrims undertaking Hajj.
They will spend the night there before departing at dawn on Thursday for the plains of Arafat, where they will observe Waqoof-e-Arafat, the Rukn-e-Azm of Hajj, in deep prayer and reflection, seeking divine blessings.
Pilgrims will listen to the Hajj sermon in their tents, with translations available in 35 languages. They will perform Zohr and Asr prayers together and spend the entire day engaged in prayers and Talbia.
Nearly 73% of Pakistani pilgrims will travel to Arafat by train, while the remaining will make the journey by bus.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Hajj Mission has urged pilgrims to adhere strictly to instructions from Saudi authorities to mitigate risks associated with overcrowding and extreme weather conditions.
Over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims under the government Hajj scheme were transported to the world’s largest tent valley using 932 buses.
Following last year’s heatwave, Saudi authorities have mobilized over 40 government agencies and 250,000 officials to enhance measures against heat strokes, according to official sources. Shaded areas have been expanded by 50,000 square meters, with additional cooling mist systems and water fountains installed to aid pilgrims in the holy land.
Aziz Ullah Khan, Director Makkah confirmed that the total bed count in Mina has been finalized through coordination with Mission officials and Saudi Tawafa company A-Rajhi, surpassing requirements. He noted that each pilgrim’s designated sofa-cum-bed will feature their name and photograph, accompanied by a gift hamper, with verification available via wristbands issued by the Pakistan Hajj Mission.
Chief Coordinator Hajj Operation Dr Mirza Ali Mehsud said that traditional mattresses have been replaced with sofa-cum-beds. Upgraded tents now feature gypsum board walls, while air conditioners have been added alongside existing air coolers to enhance comfort for pilgrims.
He stated that elevated luggage storage racks have been introduced to enhance space and comfort. Each Maktab now features a dedicated kitchen, ensuring pilgrims in Mina receive five meals daily—three freshly prepared and two packaged. Additionally, pilgrims will have access to round-the-clock servings of juices and tea.
He stated that shoe hangers, deep freezers, and refrigerators have been installed in the carpeted corridors, which are also equipped with overhead shades.
The Chief Coordinator noted that Mina houses 34 Maktabs dedicated to Pakistani pilgrims, each staffed with a doctor and paramedics. He emphasized that inspection teams are conducting regular visits to oversee facilities managed by the Al Rajhi Company.
Additionally, each Maktab has designated coordinators tasked with continuously reviewing and maintaining arrangements.
In response to a question, he mentioned that more than 23,000 buses operate on the Mina route during the Mashair days.
Talking to APP, Arif Tabassum, a government scheme from Islamabad expressed satisfaction with the exceptional food quality and well-organized serving arrangements at their hotel accommodations, praising the neat and clean staff for their dedicated service. Similarly, Amna Bibi and Irfan from Sialkot shared positive feedback on their experience.
Additionally, the government scheme for Hajj pilgrims has received widespread appreciation for its commitment to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling journey. From well-maintained accommodations to efficient logistical support, hujjaj under the scheme benefit from thoughtfully arranged facilities that enhance their pilgrimage experience. The meticulous planning and execution of services reflect the authorities’ dedication to providing the best possible support, allowing pilgrims to focus on the sacred rituals of Hajj with peace of mind.