ISLAMABAD, Sept 17: Min-istry of Religious Affairs, Zakat and Ushr is busy in making arrangements for Haj, 2006. According to a press release issued here on Saturday 150,000 pilgrims will perform Haj this year. About 90,000 will perform Haj under government scheme whereas 60,000 will go for sacred journey through private group organizers.

The ministry has received more than 138,000 applications for 90,000 vacancies and 60,000 applications have been received under private Haj scheme. A ballot for government scheme will be held during first week of October.

The last date for Haj applications both for private and government schemes was Aug 15, 2005 and the ministry is making final arrangements for ballot, allocation of buildings, Haj flight schedule etc.

It has been brought to the notice of this ministry that some registered and un-registered group organizers are accepting applications under Private scheme.

It is brought to the notice of general public that private group organizers have utilized their quota of 60,000 pilgrims and no seat is available with them now.