Eleven intending pilgrims have so far died, including nine government and two private scheme pilgrims, in Saudi Arabia, who will be buried in Jannat-ul-Baqi.
Over 102,000 Pakistani pilgrims have so far reached the holy land, including 74,000 government and 28,000 private scheme pilgrims.
Likewise, 28,000 pilgrims have returned to Makkah after completing the visit of Madina, while 23,000 pilgrims of government Hajj scheme are still in Madina.
Earlier Hajj pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the quality and standard of food being served to them in Saudi Arabia. Talking to Radio Pakistan in Makkah, the pilgrims lauded the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony for ensuring quality and hygienic food. They expressed satisfaction on the quality as well as quantity of the food.
Terming the food as a balanced diet, the pilgrims said the staff is also well mannered, courteous and cooperative when it serves food. However, some of the pilgrims demanded some change in the food taste.
A special team visited kitchens of catering companies and observed that principles of hygiene are strictly followed while preparing, packaging, transportation, and distribution of food.
Meanwhile, Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Dr Noor-ul-Haq Qadri said the standard of food is much better than previous years.
In a statement, he said comprehensive arrangements have been made to address complaints of the Hujjaj. He said food contracts have been given to new and well-reputed catering companies this year. He said no negligence regarding Hajj facilities, including food, will be tolerated. Dr Noor-ul-Haq Qadri said serving pilgrims is a noble deed and political parties should refrain from doing politics on this sacred cause.
