The Ministry of Religious Affairs has advised Pakistani pilgrims planning to travel to Iran and Iraq to book their journeys only through government-registered Ziyarat Group Organizers (ZGOs). The directive has been issued under Pakistan’s newly introduced Ziyarat Management Policy to ensure safe and organized pilgrimage arrangements.
The guidance was announced after a review meeting on the implementation of the new policy. The meeting was attended by representatives from the ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs and Communications, along with officials from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other relevant departments.
During the meeting, officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating pilgrims travelling to Iran and Iraq. Authorities reviewed the progress of the new policy and discussed measures to improve travel arrangements and provide better services for pilgrims.
The Civil Aviation Authority and airlines were directed to provide maximum assistance to pilgrims, ensuring smooth air travel and better coordination during the pilgrimage season. Officials stressed the importance of making travel arrangements easier and more secure for all registered pilgrims.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a total of 262 Ziyarat Group Organizers have been registered under the new Ziyarat Management Policy. Pilgrims have been strongly urged to make their bookings only through these approved operators to avoid fraud and travel-related issues.
A spokesperson for the ministry advised intending pilgrims to verify the list of authorized Ziyarat Group Organizers on the ministry’s official website before making any payments or travel arrangements. The ministry warned that it will not accept responsibility for bookings made through unlicensed individuals or unauthorized travel companies.
The government says the new policy is aimed at improving the management of pilgrimage travel, increasing transparency and protecting pilgrims from fraudulent operators. Officials encouraged all travelers to follow the official guidelines to ensure a safe and hassle-free journey.
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