NITB develops app to digitalise Haj operations
ISLAMABAD: The Haj operations have been digitalsied with the development of a mobile app in record time to facilitate the pilgrims.
Caretaker Minister for Information Technology Dr Umar Saif and Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed jointly launched the application developed by the National Information Technology Board (NITB) here on Wednesday.
Chief Executive Officer NITB Babar Majeed Bhatti briefed the participants about the application in the welcome address.
Dr. Umar Saif said the process of digitalization had been accelerated under the directions of Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Highlighting the key features of the application, he said the application enabled the pilgrims to register using the OTP received via SMS.
The users will be provided with a unique ID that is their CNIC and application number and the pilgrims can view and update their personal information, including contact details and identification information.
The application will enable the pilgrims to view their Haj application status i.e. (submitted, successful, unsuccessful, refunded).
Dr. Umar Saif further said that the pilgrims could access information about their group, including group members’ details. The application enables them to view their Haj training schedules, including dates, time and locations.
The application displays flight details, including flight number, departure cities, date, and time for both departure and return flights.
It also allows the pilgrims to check the status of their Haj dues and refund status. The pilgrims can submit complaints, requests and general inquiries and can track and manage their requests efficiently.
The application is multilingual and allows the pilgrims to switch to their preferred language for easy understanding and usage. Presently, two languages (English and Urdu) have been added although the system will have the provision to add more languages.
Dr. Umar Saif said the application had offline maps feature that allows the pilgrims to choose their destination with the shortest route.
The application allows the users to share their location. Multiple destinations can also be added to the application.
Speaking on the occasion, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of IT and NITB and said the need of the hour was to upgrade the existing system related to Haj operations and adopt technology in day-to-day affairs.
The Haj app is the right answer and it will also help the authorities know the true feelings of pilgrims. With this application, now the pilgrims will participate digitally in every process from submitting their application to performing Haj and returning home. Aneeq Ahmed further said that the application will serve as a centralized platform, seamlessly integrating with the ministry’s existing systems.
