Hyderabad:The Telangana state Haj Committee has made elaborate arrangements for pilgrims departing on the Haj from May 4.
A total of 23 flights have been arranged, the last scheduled for May 21. Pilgrims have been advised to reach the Haj House 24 hours before departure to collect their Haj kits, which include a smart wristwatch and identification stickers. Around 9,900 pilgrims will travel from the Hyderabad embarkation point, including 6,600 from Telangana and the remainder from other states.
Addressing the media on Saturday, Haj Committee chairman Syed Ghulam Afzal Biyabani said that, as flight ticket prices have risen because of higher aviation fuel costs, the Central Haj Committee had asked pilgrims to pay an additional Rs 10,000.
However, the Telangana committee has requested the government to reconsider, noting that pilgrims from other states have already travelled without this extra charge.
Haj inspectors will assist pilgrims and ensure improved facilities. Special care will be taken during the journey, as more than 50 per cent of the pilgrims are senior citizens.
Under new Saudi regulations, pilgrims will not be permitted to cook in their rooms; instead they will be given a list of government‑approved caterers. Unlike previous years, when men and women sometimes shared rooms, separate accommodation will be provided this year.
He advised pilgrims to follow the guidelines strictly, especially because of high temperatures, and to avoid going out between 10 am and 3 pm. The committee will provide smart watches and offer guidance on wearing the ihram, with assistance from religious scholars, before departure.
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