“Scorching Heat Claims 550 Lives During Hajj in Mecca”

Performing Hajj is a mandatory act for every Muslim who can afford it and is physically able. However, this year’s pilgrimage has faced severe challenges, with temperatures reaching as high as 51.8°C (125°F) in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that the intense heat has resulted in at least 550 deaths, primarily due to heat-related illnesses.

A recent video surfaced on the X platform showing the bodies of deceased pilgrims lying by the roadside, sparking criticism of Saudi authorities regarding their management of the situation. The video, shared by an Indonesian social media user, garnered millions of views and likes. The bodies were seen covered with cloth, with some still in wheelchairs.

“Saudi Arabia is not responsive in maintaining Hajj. Video of deceased pilgrims left on the streets due to heatstroke,” the caption read. The viral footage prompted numerous comments and questions about the Saudi authorities’ response to the situation.

Some Indonesian netizens expressed concern and sought explanations for the lack of immediate action. A netizen, @RjjjRay, explained that unregistered pilgrims were not documented by the country, lacked access to essential services, and were vulnerable to extreme heat.

“PLEASE, stop spreading false information. It’s a lie and HARAM. For months before Hajj, my country has repeatedly warned all (foreigners and citizens) to register and obtain their Hajj permits for their safety,” he said.

According to a report by the British daily newspaper The Guardian, at least 550 pilgrims have died this year due to heat-related illnesses, with the total reported death toll reaching 645. It was reported that approximately 1.8 million people attended the pilgrimage.

The article further cited the Saudi National Centre for Metrology, which reported that human-caused climate breakdown was intensifying heatwaves worldwide, making each one more severe. The burning sun and suffocating heat in Mecca and its holy sites were relentless. Many pilgrims, especially the elderly, collapsed from the heat and required medical assistance. Saudi Arabia reported over 2,700 cases of “heat exhaustion” on a single Sunday.

It was also reported that last year, more than 200 pilgrims, mostly from Indonesia, died while performing Hajj. Additionally, it was reported today that six more Malaysian pilgrims died in the Holy Land, bringing the total number of deaths so far to 14, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr. Mohd Na’im Mokhtar. He said all the pilgrims who died had time to perform wukuf worship, and most of them died from heart disease, pneumonia, and blood infections.