Daily Reports
Tragic Losses During Hajj Pilgrimage
More than 900 people have tragically lost their lives during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The extreme heat has been cited as the primary cause of these deaths, with temperatures soaring to an unprecedented 51.8 degrees Celsius. The majority of the victims were from Egypt, with at least 600 Egyptian pilgrims confirmed dead. Other nationalities affected include 68 Indians, 60 Jordanians, and numerous others from Indonesia, Iran, Senegal, Tunisia, and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Causes and Risks of Hajj
The annual Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is mandatory for all Muslims who can afford it. This year, around 1.8 million worshipers participated, including 1.6 million from abroad. The pilgrimage, which takes place during the Islamic lunar month of Dhul-Hijja, has increasingly been impacted by climate change. A 2019 study by MIT revealed that future Hajj pilgrimages could face temperatures exceeding an 'extreme danger threshold' from 2047 to 2052 and again from 2079 to 2086.
Historical Context and Preventive Measures
Deaths during the Hajj are not uncommon. The deadliest incident occurred in 2015 when a stampede in Mina resulted in over 2,400 deaths. Saudi authorities have been urged to implement more robust safety measures to prevent such tragedies. This year, the Saudi Ministry of Health treated over 2,700 pilgrims for heat-related symptoms and advised pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Despite these efforts, the extreme conditions continue to pose significant risks to the millions who undertake this sacred journey each year.
- The Hajj pilgrimage, a cornerstone of Islamic faith, continues to draw millions of worshipers from around the globe. However, the increasing severity of climate change poses a growing threat to the safety of these pilgrims. In addition to the extreme heat, other historical risks include stampedes, fires, and structural collapses, such as the 2015 crane accident in Mecca.
- Saudi Arabia has been making efforts to improve safety measures, including advising pilgrims on hydration and scheduling rituals to avoid the hottest parts of the day. However, the rising temperatures due to global warming present a formidable challenge that requires ongoing attention and adaptation.
- The global Muslim community mourns the loss of those who have perished during this year's Hajj. Families continue to search for missing relatives, and the international community calls for enhanced safety protocols to ensure the well-being of future pilgrims.
