Over 900 deaths occurred during this year’s Hajj amid extreme heat, according to reports. Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs urged the public to dismiss “inauthentic” social media claims about pilgrim hardships.
Victims included 600 Egyptians, 144 Indonesians, and others from various countries.
Saudi authorities reported 2,700 cases of “heat exhaustion” last Sunday but have not confirmed the death toll.
Abdul Wahab Soomro, Director General of Pakistan’s Hajj Mission, reported 35 Pakistani fatalities as of June 18.
Mr. Soomro criticized unverified social media videos showing unattended pilgrims, stressing the importance of reliable sources.
The Ministry highlighted the severe challenges of this year’s Hajj, with temperatures hitting 50 degrees Centigrade. They noted the Saudi government’s burial arrangements and the option to repatriate deceased Pakistani pilgrims.
On June 16, reports of pilgrims trapped in Muzdalifah and other difficulties emerged. Issues included delays, a lack of cooling fans, and a power outage.
The Ministry downplayed these issues as routine, citing Saudi efforts to manage the pilgrim influx safely.
