Hyderabad: In a major relief for Haj pilgrims, the Telangana government has decided to bear the additional airfare cost of ₹10,000 per person for this year’s pilgrimage. The move will benefit around 7,000 pilgrims from the state.

Sources said Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy approved the proposal after recommendations from the state Haj committee and internal discussions. The decision is expected to cost the state exchequer nearly ₹7 crore.

The airfare hike follows a directive from the Haj Committee of India, which announced a one-time increase due to rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Initially, pilgrims were asked to pay an additional USD 100 (around ₹10,000) by May 15.

Airlines had earlier demanded a steeper hike of over USD 400, citing fuel price increases, but the amount was later reduced after consultations.

State Steps In

Officials said the government intervened to ease the financial burden, especially since many pilgrims save for years to undertake the Haj. Those who have already paid the extra fare will be refunded after completing their pilgrimage.

Political Reactions

The fare hike has sparked criticism, with Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi questioning the timing of the decision and seeking greater transparency. Community representatives have also demanded clarity on fare agreements and last-minute revisions.

Flights Begin

Haj flights from Hyderabad began on May 4, while departures across India started on April 18. With the state government stepping in, pilgrims from Telangana can now proceed without additional financial stress.

Over 1.75 lakh pilgrims from across India are expected to undertake the Haj pilgrimage this year.

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