On June 18 at 4 PM, the director general of Hajj Mission, Abdul Wahab Soomro, reported that nine Pakistani pilgrims had died (four in Mina, three in Arafat, and two in Muzdalifah) among the holy sites (Mashair), bringing the total number Pakistani Hajj Deaths up to 35 as confirmed by the Ministry for Religious Affairs.
Deaths in Makkah and Madinah Pakistani Hajj Deaths
D.G. Hajj stated that 20 Pakistani pilgrims passed away in Makkah and six in Madinah. “Due to the temperature reaching 50 degrees Celsius, this Hajj was particularly challenging,” he noted. He also addressed the unfounded allegations on social media about pilgrims being left without assistance. “We rely on the information provided by the Saudi government and verify it ourselves,” he emphasized.
Heat Wave Impact Pakistani Hajj Deaths
Nine hundred twenty-two people died in the heat wave during Hajj, underscoring the severity of the conditions they faced.
Procedure Following a Pilgrim’s Death Pakistani Hajj Deaths
DG Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro explained the procedures followed during a pilgrim’s death. “We are notified immediately upon the death of any pilgrim. Hajj Deaths The Saudi government has an established system that requires permission from the next of kin for the burial. The deceased is then washed, funeral prayers are offered at the Haramain, and the burial is conducted,” he detailed. “Alternatively, arrangements are made to transport the body back to Pakistan if that is the family’s wish,” he added.
Confirmation and SupportÂ
The confirmation of Hajj Deaths and the support extended to the pilgrims’ families highlight the coordinated efforts between the Pakistani Hajj Mission and the Saudi authorities to manage the challenging conditions during Hajj.
SummaryÂ
The Ministry of Religious Affairs’ confirmation of the pilgrims and the procedures followed highlight the extreme conditions faced during this Hajj season. The ministry’s reliance on and verification of information from the Saudi government ensures that the families of the deceased are supported during this difficult time.
