57,370 lucky Hajj pilgrims to avail ballot draws according to Government Scheme.

ISLAMABAD, August 10, 2009 (Frontier Star): The ministry of religious affairs has finalized the balloting of 57, 370 lucky Hajj pilgrims, who have been selected from the draw, according to governmental scheme. Addressing a press conference on the occasion, the federal religious minister, Hamid Saeed Kazmi informed that the lucky winners would be provided adequate lodgings, as near as 5 kilometers from Ka'aba, while the females would have to wear the Abaya gown over the usual Ahram covering for Hajj. He also informed that the government had allocated a quota of 1,59,647 pilgrims, out of which 80,000 would be from government scheme, while the quota for Hajj group organizers has been set at 79,647; both of which are similar to past. He said that Saudi government has been requested for an increase in the allocated quota, in view of population increase, and expressed a hope for being allocated a quota of 10,000 more during the Holy month of Ramadan. He informed that due to crisis, there has been a noticeable decrease in Hajj applications, but has and would increase with passage of time, while the condition for an international passport has been levied by Saudia government for all. Referring to quota for Parliamentarians, he informed that PM; Yousuf Raza Gilani had formed a special committee, which asked for recommendations from all Parliamentarians; who had all, save for few, demanded the revival of quota. The first flight for Hajj would depart on 20th October 2009, as operated jointly by PIA and Saudi Airlines, in which those below 12 years of age and frail older than 65 citizens have been restricted. Among other facilities, Hajj pilgrims would be entitled to 32 kilograms of free baggage, while on their return, they would be allowed free 7 kilo of hand-carry luggage and 10 litres of Holy water as well.

(THROUGH ASIA PULSE)