Parliamentary Committee Urges Permission for Iraqi, Iranian Airlines to Operate Flights to Pakistan
Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has recommended that Iraqi and Iranian airlines be allowed to operate flights to Pakistan to facilitate religious pilgrims. The committee also urged Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to start pilgrimage flights from Karachi.
The meeting, chaired by MNA Shagufta Jumani, was briefed by Additional Secretary for Religious Affairs Sajid Mahmood, who informed members that priority is being given to pilgrims who had paid for Hajj last year but were unable to travel. So far, 21,000 such pilgrims have been registered.
He noted that while Saudi Arabia currently allows only air travel for pilgrims, the ministry is exploring options for sea travel for Ziarat pilgrims. He added that Lahore is being included in the “Road to Makkah” initiative, which requires a minimum of 40,000 pilgrims.
Committee members highlighted that Iraqi airlines had offered to transport pilgrims for as low as \$280 per ticket. Jumani emphasized that demand for travel to Iraq has significantly increased, stressing the need for more direct flight options.
The ministry also disclosed that 24 companies had been granted NOCs for Ziarat operations. The chairperson, however, raised concerns over the “salar system,” insisting it should not be abolished as it plays a crucial role in managing pilgrim groups.
During the session, State Minister for Sports Das Kohistani criticized India for restricting Sikh pilgrims from attending religious rituals in Pakistan, calling it a violation of human rights.
The committee also discussed the “National Commission for Minorities” bill, issues with last year’s catering contracts for Hajj (including one awarded to an Indian company), and concerns about inadequate development funds for minorities in Pakistan.
The meeting concluded with a call for open bidding of Hajj-related contracts to ensure transparency and competition.
