Indian Consulate General to Saudi Arabia thank Kingdom for arrangements of adequate services during Haj 2018

Jeddah 23 August 2018: (Bhatkallys News Bureau) Indian Consulate General to Saudi Arabia issued a press release on Thursday, elaborating on the services provided to the Indian Haj pilgrims for them to complete their cherished pillar of Islam with ease and convenience. This year Saudi government had this year increased the quota for Indian pilgrims, this quota is the largest ever given to India so far. Out of the total quota, 1,28,702 pilgrims were from the Haj Committee of India and the remaining 46,323 are from private tour operators. "We are highly thankful to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque, King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman Abdulaziz for enhancing the quota for Indian pilgrims for Haj 2018 and consequently about 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims were able to realize their dreams to become the Guests of Allah" added the press release. The Government of India had sent about 600 deputationists, including Doctors and Paramedics to provide assistance to the Hajis. Most significantly, there were 97 lady officials, including a senior official, who has come as Coordinator to provide welfare services to lady pilgrims, particularly lady pilgrims of above 45 years of age who arrived without male Mehram. Addressing the issues of travelling and lodging for the Hajis, 439 buildings were hired in Makkah, including 62 in Green category and 377 in Azizia category. Further, newer model of buses, majority of 2018 and above model, were hired to provide a hassle-free and comfortable bus movement of Hajis between their accommodation and Haram. While good quality buses were provided for the movement of Hajis between the cities of Makkah and Madinah. "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has paid a special attention on the movement of Hajis from their accommodation in Makkah to Mina as well as within Mashaer region. This enabled the Hajis to complete their rituals on time. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia deserves applaud and appreciation for the excellent arrangements made under the dynamic leadership of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman Abdulaziz and Minister of Haj & Umrah, HE Dr. Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten for enhancing the ease and comfort of Indian Hajis" the press release added. (Bhatkallys News Bureau/ Habibullah Mohtesham)