Haj pilgrims from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh will have to shell down an additional amount this time in view of the likely increase in flight fare and rise in the Saudi Riyal rate. This apart they will have to bear an extra Rs. 5,100 each for purchase of two suitcases from the Haj Committee of India (HCI). The overall increase for each pilgrim is expected to be between Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000.
While they have no issuesover the Riyal rate and flight fare, what has angered pilgrims is the HCI’s decision to supply suitcases for pilgrims. Earlier, pilgrims were free to buy their own luggage, but now they have to compulsorily purchase two suitcases of 35 kg and 25 kg from the HCI. The latter is believed to have placed order for manufacture of 2 lakh suitcases of uniform size with a popular company.
Many think it as an unfair proposition while some see an underhand deal between HCI officials and the company. Though pilgrims have strongly protested against this, the HCI is unlikely to reverse its decision. The flight charges are expected to go up by Rs. 7,000, while the Riyal rate is now Rs.17 as against Rs.15 last year. All this is going to add to the burden of pilgrims.
