Hajj body calls for independent technical committee for reducing, refixing airfares

Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) on Monday urged the government to form an independent technical committee for reducing and refixing airfares for Hajj pilgrims. 

President of HAAB M Shahadat Hossain Taslim made the demand at a press conference at Ashkona Hajj Camp in the capital city. 

The HAAB arranged the event marking the end of Hajj activities for 2024 on the day (Monday).

This year’s hajj flight started on May 9 and ended on June 10, (Monday).

Mr Taslim said that Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Saudi Airlines and Flynas have carried Hajj pilgrims from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia this year. 

"Airfares for Hajj passengers from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia are higher compared to the neighbouring countries. To reduce the airfares, a technical committee involving aviation experts should immediately be formed to reduce the pressure on Hajj pilgrims," he said. 

The HAAB president also stated that this year Hajj services for Bangladeshi pilgrims were done smoothly compared to the previous years.

He puts forward some recommendations that include preserving receipts of money deposits by the Hajj pilgrims to their respective agencies’ bank accounts, making a written document between the pilgrims and agencies that will mention facilities and discussion between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and HAAB for fixing flight schedules.

The holy Hajj will be held on June 15 next.

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