Senator Raja Nasser Abbas Warns of Rs 50 Billion Loss Due to Ban on Land Route for Arbaeen Pilgrims

Islamabad: Senator Raja Nasser Abbas has warned that if the ban on the land route for Arbaeen pilgrims continues, Pakistan could suffer a loss of Rs 50 billion. His remarks came during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, chaired by Senator Ata-ur-Rehman, where the Ministry of Religious Affairs briefed members on the situation concerning the ban on land routes for pilgrims traveling to Karbala for the Arbaeen ceremony.
Senator Nasser Abbas expressed concerns that if alternative routes were used, an additional cost of Rs 48 billion would be incurred. He stressed that the Ministry of Religious Affairs is more knowledgeable about the religious matters, and it is not the Interior Committee’s jurisdiction to make decisions on this issue. He further questioned the government about the arrangements for pilgrims who had already paid and arranged buses, suggesting that Pakistan could explore opening sea routes or other alternative paths.
During the session, the Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs mentioned that consultations had been held regarding sea routes, and ministers from Iran, Iraq, and Pakistan had agreed on new routes. However, security concerns over using Afghanistan as a route were raised.
Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Yousaf, clarified that no ban had been imposed by the government and expressed full support for the pilgrims. However, Senator Raja Nasser Abbas raised concerns that the Ministry had not consulted with them regarding the tour operator policy, to which Minister Yousaf assured he would engage in further discussions.
Senator Aoun Abbas Bappi also voiced strong reservations about the actions of the Director-General of Hajj and demanded his removal, urging the appointment of a competent and honest individual in the position.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs pointed out that the private sector should perform better than the government in organizing Hajj operations, and that from next year, a unified system will be introduced for both private and government Hajj operators.
The Senior Joint Secretary of Religious Affairs suggested that individuals involved in theft at the Holy Haram should be imprisoned for life. He also proposed an inquiry into the procurement committee, emphasizing transparency in all government processes.
Minister Yousaf assured that those who had missed out on Hajj this year would be given priority next year, adding that over 10,000 pilgrims had already requested refunds. He also confirmed that pilgrims who wish to get a refund could do so.
Looking ahead, the Minister announced that the Hajj of 2026 would be conducted according to Saudi guidelines, with those responsible for any shortcomings being held accountable.