Government should take practical steps to bring fare to $220 for Arbaeen, says MNA Shagufta Jumani

Shiite News: Islamabad — In the recent session of the National Assembly, Member of the National Assembly, Ms. Shagufta Jumani, presented the issues of Arbaeen pilgrims in a comprehensive manner before the House.

She strongly appealed to the government to make air travel easy, cheap and accessible for poor pilgrims going to Iraq on the occasion of Arbaeen of Imam Hussain (AS).

Ms. Shagufta Jumani said: “Most of the people who go to Arbaeen are poor. Some sell goats, some cows, some household items to collect their provisions.

They have a passion for the love of their Master Imam Hussain AS in their hearts. But at this time, the pilgrims are in deep despair.”

He pointed out that pilgrims going by land are facing restrictions, and air fares have been increased excessively.

He said: “Earlier, the ticket to Najaf was $380, now it has become $500, while the fare to Baghdad has reached $620.

How can a poor person afford such expensive tickets? The ticket alone is Rs 250,000 to Rs 300,000, after which the expenses for accommodation, food, transport, all together, become Rs 400,000 to Rs 500,000!”

He also revealed that PIA flights are also expensive, with the fare going up to $750, which has now been reduced to $675 a few days ago, but this is also unaffordable for the common pilgrim.

Ms. Shagufta Jumani demanded in the assembly that: “Fly Baghdad” should also be allowed to operate flights from Pakistan, so that competition increases and fares are reduced.

The fare should be brought back to $380, which was fixed during Arbaeen in the past. The government should waive the airspace fee ($100), as is done during Hajj.

The government should provide a subsidy of at least $50 for pilgrims, so that the fare can be brought down to $220.

She appealed to the Prime Minister, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif:

“Have mercy on the pilgrims. It is possible for them to bring the ticket price down to $220, all that is needed is intention and decision. This step is important not only for the pilgrims but also for the good name of Pakistan and public service.”

Shagufta Jumani said emotionally at the end of her speech:

“I plead with folded hands with the Prime Minister and the government to resolve the issue of the pilgrims. If it were not possible, I would not have spoken in the House. But it is possible!”

During this speech, many members of the assembly supported her, and her speech is also being appreciated in public circles.