Performing the religious pilgrimage of Hajj has become even more expensive for the common man in Pakistan, as this year’s Hajj package will cost Rs115,000 more. The Ministry of Religious Affairs secretary informed the Standing Committee on Religious Affairs on Thursday, that this time the Hajj pilgrimage will cost Rs550,000 citing depreciation in the value of Pakistani Rupee and the increase in fares leading to increase in cost. Chairman of the committee, Senator Abdul Ghafoor Haidari, expressed his disappointment at the absence of Minister for Religious Affairs at the meeting and directed to ensure the minister attendance at the next meeting. The Standing Committee was told that the North Region's Hajj package is now increased to Rs550,000 whereas the South Region's Hajj package is priced at Rs545,000. The Ministry of Religious Affairs said the increase was due to a decrease in the value of rupees and increase in the fares of airlines. The committee adjourned the meeting due to the minister's absence.