The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has confirmed that the Pakistani Hajj mission will provide free medical treatment to pilgrims from Pakistan. A health facility has been set up in the city of Medina, which operates 24/7 and has a team of skilled doctors, nurses, and medical staff. The facility is equipped with necessary healthcare equipment and even has a mini operation theater.
The health facility offers emergency care and has facilities for patients to stay in the ward. Dr. Waleed, a member of the Pakistani Hajj medical mission, mentioned that the facility also has a laboratory, X-ray machine, pharmacy, and dentistry services to assist pilgrims in need. Free medicines are provided to patients through the retention facility and dispensary.
The Ministry assures that the staff at the health facility is trained to handle various medical issues that may arise during the pilgrimage, including common illnesses, injuries, and other health challenges. The Ministry has announced the establishment of two health centers in Mecca and Medina where pilgrims can receive medical care. They have also launched an official helpline (800 1166622) to provide information related to the pilgrimage.
The Hajj operation is currently underway, and pilgrims from Pakistan and other countries are arriving in the Holy Kingdom. The government of Pakistan has set the expenses for Hajj at Rs1.175 million per pilgrim, which is 68% higher than the previous year. This increase in cost has deterred many Muslims from performing the ritual due to the high inflation rates.
It is noteworthy that Saudi Arabia is welcoming a large number of pilgrims, around 2.3 million, for the first time since the pandemic restrictions have been lifted. In the 2022 Hajj season, only fully vaccinated or immunized individuals aged 18 to 65, without chronic diseases, were allowed to visit the kingdom.
