Hyderabad: The Telangana Haj Committee has announced that Haj pilgrims from the state who paid an additional ₹10,000 towards revised airfare will be reimbursed, providing relief after the unexpected increase in travel costs.
The additional charge was introduced earlier by the Haj Committee of India following a rise in aviation fuel prices linked to the geopolitical situation in the Middle East. Pilgrims across the country had been instructed to deposit the extra amount as part of the revised airfare for Haj 2026.
According to the Telangana Haj Committee, the state government has decided to refund the entire ₹10,000 additional airfare to eligible pilgrims from Telangana. The move ensures that pilgrims from the state will not have to bear the extra financial burden caused by the airfare revision.
Thousands of pilgrims from Telangana are expected to benefit from the decision. The reimbursement comes after concerns were raised over the sudden increase in travel expenses, with several public representatives urging authorities to provide relief.
The airfare hike was introduced after airlines sought higher fares due to increased Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices amid tensions in West Asia. The Haj Committee of India approved a one-time revision, requiring pilgrims to pay an additional amount before their departure.
Officials said the refund reflects the Telangana government's commitment to supporting Haj pilgrims and reducing the financial impact of the revised airfare. Further details regarding the refund process and payment mechanism are expected to be communicated through the Telangana Haj Committee.
