Dhaka, May 29 (V7N) – A total of 74,316 Bangladeshi pilgrims have already reached Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj this year, according to Religious Affairs Advisor Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday morning (May 29), Dr. Hossain informed that the remaining pilgrims will arrive in Saudi Arabia by June 1.

Addressing concerns over high travel expenses, the Religious Advisor announced that Hajj airfare has been reduced by Tk 26,980 compared to last year. The reduction follows several rounds of discussions with Bangladesh Biman, Saudia Airlines, and other stakeholders.

“The government is actively exploring the possibility of introducing sea travel as an alternative from next year, alongside providing subsidies to reduce the financial burden on pilgrims,” Dr. Hossain added.

He also said that steps are being taken to tackle corruption within Hajj agencies. “From next year, agencies will be selected based on their performance evaluations to ensure better service and transparency,” he noted.

Unfortunately, 12 Bangladeshi pilgrims have died so far during this year’s Hajj, and 36 others are currently hospitalized.

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