ISLAMABAD: Secretary Religious Affairs, Dr. Syed Atta-ur-Rehman, on Friday has said that the Saudi officials had successfully completed the survey for the ‘Road to Makkah’ project at Karachi Airport, marking a vital step forward in facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage process.
The Secretary confirmed the development while emphasizing the importance of the project in streamlining immigration and customs procedures for the pilgrims.
He further said that the immigration and customs clearance of Hajj pilgrims for this year would be completed at Karachi Airport adding that the step would be taken for the convenience of the pilgrims.
“There is a strong possibility that the Saudi authorities would introduce the latest immigration technology at Karachi Airport,” he said while hinting at the potential for speedy processing times.
Road to Makkah’ Project to Facilitate Pilgrims
Dr Atta also highlighted the usage of modern technology in baggage handling, stating, “With the help of modern technology, immigration could be completed in less than a minute adding that the integration of RFID technology would ensure the swift delivery of pilgrims’ luggage and would minimize the risk of loss or misplacement.
“Moreover, the belongings of the pilgrims would be labeled and coded based on eight zones to facilitate the smooth sorting and delivery process, “he said. The Secretary affirmed that the goods of the pilgrims would be delivered directly to the residences through the ‘Road to Makkah’ project.
Dr. Syed Atta-ur-Rehman further said that the pilgrims from Sukkur and Quetta would be dealt through Karachi Airport, whereas those from Peshawar through Islamabad Airport for further facilitation and easy accessibility.
The secretary also informed that over 60 percent of government pilgrims would benefit from the initiative this year, with provisions in place for private Hajj scheme participants also.
Expressing gratitude for Karachi’s inclusion in the ‘Road to Makkah’ project, he appreciated Saudi authorities and Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki for the collaborative efforts to boost the pilgrimage experience.
