Thursday, June 20, 2024 The annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, turned tragic this year as a brutal heatwave claimed the lives of over 900 pilgrims, including 68 Indian nationals, marking a catastrophe in the history of Saudi Arabia. The unforgiving temperatures, which soared to nearly 52°C (125°F), posed severe challenges for the 1.8 million devotees participating in the sacred rituals.
This article explores the devastating impact of the extreme heat on Hajj travel, the ongoing effects of climate change, and the measures taken to protect pilgrims. The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam, requiring all Muslims who are physically and financially capable to make the journey at least once in their lifetime. The event attracts millions of pilgrims from around the world, who gather in Mecca to perform a series of religious rites over several days.
This year, the pilgrimage coincided with Saudi Arabia’s intense summer heat, exacerbating the risks for participants. Rising Temperatures and Heat-Related Deaths: Impact on Indian Pilgrims: Performing Hajj during the sweltering Saudi summer poses numerous challenges for pilgrims, many of whom are elderly and frail. The pilgrimage involves long hours of walking and standing in open areas, making it difficult to avoid the scorching sun and maintain adequate hydration.
Key Challenges Faced by Pilgrims: Climate change is significantly impacting weather patterns around the globe, and Saudi Arabia is no exception.
