ISLAMABAD, Oct 2: The ministry of religious affairs, Zakat and Ushr announced on Wednesday that the banks have credited Rs10 billion, deposited by the intending pilgrims under regular and sponsorship schemes, into its account.

The ministry said that the Habib Bank, United Bank, National Bank of Pakistan, Muslim Commercial Bank, Allied Bank of Pakistan, Bank of Khyber, Bank of Punjab and Punjab Provincial Cooperative Bank were assigned to receive applications from the intending pilgrims for Haj-2003.

The ministry’s secretary, in a meeting with the representatives of the banks, had stressed for immediate transfer of the amount.

The representatives were informed that the ministry wanted to make timely payments to the PIA and Saudi Airline, besides the owners of the buildings in Makkah and Madina, and meet other Haj expenses.

The bank officials had assured to credit the remaining amount as early as possible, the ministry said.