Hajj death toll rises to over 1,300, Saudi terms pilgrim surge as ‘misjudgment.’
Saudi authorities have put the number of deaths during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage at 1,301, with most deceased lacking permits and moving under direct sunlight without adequate facilities.
As per the Saudi Press Agency report, 83% of the fatalities were unregistered pilgrims who walked long distances in searing heat without proper shelter.
While countries have reported their national tallies exceeding 1,100, the Saudi health minister termed the overall management as “successful” but acknowledged “numerous heat stroke cases”.
The minister said 141,000 medical services were provided to unauthorized pilgrims, without specifying how many deaths were due to extreme weather.
With temperatures crossing 50 degrees Celsius, a senior Saudi official last week attributed the toll to “misjudgment” by some underestimating risks.
Egypt has ordered action against 16 firms for facilitating illegal Hajj, noting the rise in the deaths of its permitless nationals. Stranded in open areas, several unregistered pilgrims from various countries also faced issues accessing hospitals.
As climate change impacts worsen, studies warn the danger threshold for pilgrims will be exceeded more frequently post-2047. The indoorization of key rituals remains crucial in upcoming Hajjs.
