Pakistan Hajj Mission in Makkah Mukaramah has imposed 17 penalties amounting to 263,580 Saudi Riyals on six catering companies over the food safety violations.

According to a Radio Pakistan’s report from Makkah Mukaramah, the Pakistani authorities warned the caterers to maintain food quality otherwise their contracts can be terminated.

In this regard Director Food Asghar Yousafzai had clearly conveyed that no negligence will be tolerated.

It is pertinent to mention that the hiring process of the caterers was initiated in November last year, following approval from the federal cabinet and was completed in due course of time, ensuring quality food and hygiene standards at a rate of 35 Saudi Riyal per person.

More than 55,990 pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia via 217 flights since the start of the month-long pre-Hajj flight operation on May 9.