Riyadh: The Hajj pilgrimage of 2024 has been marred by a significant number of deaths, reportedly exceeding 900, primarily due to severe heat conditions, according to officials and news agencies.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Pakistan issued a statement urging the public to disregard social media posts that depict distressing scenes from the pilgrimage, labeling them as “inauthentic.” The fatalities include pilgrims from various countries, with notable numbers from Egypt, Indonesia, India, and others, as reported by diplomats and officials.
Saudi Arabia, where the Hajj takes place annually, has not officially disclosed the death toll but acknowledged over 2,700 cases of heat exhaustion in a single day. Temperatures in Makkah soared to 51.8 degrees Celsius, exacerbating the challenges faced by pilgrims during their rituals.
Abdul Wahab Soomro, Director General of Pakistan’s Haj Mission, confirmed 35 casualties among Pakistani pilgrims by June 18. He emphasized the importance of relying on verified information from Saudi authorities and cautioned against misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
Reports and videos circulating online showed distressing scenes of pilgrims in difficult situations, prompting concerns about the handling of emergencies and logistical challenges during the pilgrimage. Saudi authorities have assured arrangements for burials in Haramain and provisions to repatriate bodies upon families’ requests.
Despite the challenges posed by extreme heat and logistical issues, including delays in transportation and power disruptions, the Ministry of Religious Affairs reiterated that such incidents are managed routinely to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, draws millions of Muslims annually to perform religious rituals in Makkah and nearby sites. The 2024 pilgrimage has underscored the need for enhanced measures to safeguard pilgrims amidst harsh weather conditions.
As investigations and responses continue, authorities are working to address concerns raised by various international communities regarding the management and safety protocols during the Hajj pilgrimage.
(Source: Adapted from news reports and official statements)