By Raziq Ali Shah
ISLAMABAD, May 31 (APP): Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf on Saturday visited the residences of Pakistani pilgrims in Makkah to receive first-hand feedback on the Hajj arrangements.
The pilgrims were delighted to see the minister among them. The minister inspected their living conditions and inquired about their well-being, as the commencement of Hajj rituals draws near.
Many pilgrims took photos and selfies with the minister, expressing appreciation for the government’s efforts in organizing this year’s pilgrimage.
The minister also took round the pilgrims’ dining halls and kitchens, sat with them at their tables, and tasted the meals being served to the guests of Allah Almighty.
Overall, the pilgrims expressed their gratitude and praised the government’s arrangements, noting that this year’s Hajj organization and staff performance have been exemplary compared to previous years.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf assured the pilgrims that the Pakistan Hajj Mission is working diligently to provide continued support and essential facilities in Mina and Arafat.
Regarding facilities being provided to the pilgrims in Mina, he informed the pilgrims that traditional mattresses have been replaced with sofa-cum-beds, upgraded tents now feature gypsum board walls, and air conditioners have been installed alongside existing air coolers. Elevated luggage storage racks have also been placed to facilitate the pilgrims, he said.
He said the pilgrims will receive five meals per day—three freshly prepared and two pre-packaged in Mina this year.
Furthermore, the minister emphasized the presence of Pakistani Hajj assistants and paramedical staff who will accompany the pilgrims at the holy sites to offer support and ensure their needs are met.
He urged the pilgrims to remember the Muslim Ummah, their homeland Pakistan, and the Ministry in their special prayers, acknowledging the spiritual importance of their sacred journey.