Hyderabad|India|August'2009: There is some good news for those who dreamt of performing Haj and Umrah this year and failed apply for the passport.

A Special Passport Counter (SPC), for the private Haj & Umrah pilgrims from the State, has been inaugurated by the Minister for Minorities Welfare & Primary Education Mr Mohammad Ahmadullah, here on Monday.

This SPC would be opened for the aspirants till August 14, which would be issuing the Pass ports, with in five to ten days of time following the ‘Tatkal’ procedure. The Haj aspirants should apply with a fee of Rs 2,500 in the form of Demand Draft or Cash and with the proof of identification, as per the guidelines of Regional Passport Office.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that this was the special opportunity for those who are seeking to undertake the sacred journey through Private Haj Tour Operations. This could not have been possible without the Regional Passport Officials cooperation, he said, expressing his gratitude.

Answering to a question, Mr Ahmadullah said there was not a big change in the quota and the issues related with the of Swine Flu would be solved shortly with the help of Union government, which under talks with Saudi Arabian government.

The Regional Passport Officer, Mr G Srinivas requested cooperation from the aspirants, by providing genuine identification proofs. Since the process of police verification would take time and the passports would be issued by that time. This facility was exclusive for the Haj & Umrah travelers, helping them undertake this sacred journey through private means, he clarified.

Mr M A Quddus, OSD & Executive AP State Haj Committee, Mr Ilyas Sait, chairman, AP State Wakf Board and other officials were present.