At least 27,851 Hajj applications submitted on first day

ISLAMABAD: At least 27,851 Hajj applications were submitted in the designated banks of the country on Monday.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Imran Siddiqi said that Hajj applications will be received from intending pilgrims till January 24th at 13 designated bank branches across Pakistan, including Azad Kashmir.

He maintained that balloting for successful applicants will be held on January 26th. The spokesperson confirmed that Hajj dues had not been increased this year in order to further facilitate the intending pilgrims.

He asserted that Rs280,000 would be paid by the intending pilgrims of the northern region, while Rs270,000 would be received from the intending pilgrims from the southern region.

The spokesperson informed that a total of 179,210 Pakistanis would perform the sacred religious obligation this year, 67 per cent will perform Hajj under government scheme and 33 per cent under the private scheme.