Extreme high temperatures during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia resulted in the death of more than 1,000 people, with the majority coming from Egypt. The Egyptian government has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies for helping unauthorized pilgrims reach the holy sites. While the Saudi government has not commented on the deaths, authorities have cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims and referred officials from the companies responsible for facilitating their travel to the public prosecutor for investigations.
Deadly Hajj Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia: Background and Latest Developments
The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, drawing millions of Muslims from around the globe. However, this year's pilgrimage was marred by tragedy, with more than 1,000 pilgrims dying due to extreme high temperatures.
Background
The Hajj pilgrimage is a mandatory religious obligation for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it. It involves a series of rituals performed over several days, including circumambulating the Kaaba, the cube-shaped structure at the center of the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
The pilgrimage typically takes place in the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, which falls during the summer months. This year, the pilgrimage began on August 30th and ended on September 4th.
Extreme Heat
This year's pilgrimage was particularly challenging due to the extreme heat. Temperatures in Makkah routinely exceeded 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), with humidity levels often reaching 80%.
The extreme conditions put a strain on the health of pilgrims, many of whom were elderly or chronically ill. Dehydration, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses became common.
Government Response
The Saudi government has come under fire for its handling of the situation. Critics have accused the authorities of failing to take adequate measures to protect pilgrims from the heat.
In response to the criticism, the Saudi government has announced that it will set up cooling centers and provide pilgrims with more water stations. The government has also cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims, who are not registered with official tour operators.
Egyptians Most Affected
The majority of the pilgrims who died were from Egypt. The Egyptian government has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies for helping unauthorized pilgrims reach the holy sites.
The Egyptian government has also expressed condolences to the families of the victims and has called for an investigation into the deaths.
Top 5 FAQs
Q: What is the Hajj pilgrimage?
A: A mandatory religious obligation for Muslims to visit Makkah and perform a series of rituals.
Q: Why was this year's Hajj so deadly?
A: Extreme high temperatures and humidity led to heat-related illnesses among pilgrims.
Q: What was the government's response?
A: Set up cooling centers, provided more water stations, and cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims.
Q: What was the Egyptian government's response?
A: Revoked licenses of travel agencies involved in helping unauthorized pilgrims and expressed condolences to families of victims.
Q: What measures are being taken to prevent future tragedies?
A: The Saudi government has announced plans to improve cooling and hydration facilities and enforce stricter regulations for pilgrims.
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