Hajj 2024: 98 Indians died of natural causes during pilgrimage, says Centre
Hajj 2024: At least 98 Indian pilgrims have lost their lives in Saudi Arabia during Hajj pilgrimage this year, the Foreign Minister said on Friday. All deaths were caused by "natural causes," added the ministry.
According to the government, 1,75,000 Indians have visited Saudi Arabia for hajj so far this year.
Around ten countries have reported 1,081 deaths during the pilgrimage, which is one of Islam's five pillars and requires all Muslims with the means to complete it at least once.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that heat kills at least half a million people each year, but cautions that the true figure could be up to 30 times higher.
The Union Health Ministry today unveiled a document outlining the roadmap for health services and how pilgrims can access them.
Revision of the medical screening and fitness certificate used to evaluate the health and fitness of Indian applicants for the hajj, health cards for selected pilgrims, vaccines supplied to states for vaccination campaigns, health desks at embarkation points, deputation of medical staff, and the establishment of medical infrastructure at various locations are among the medical care arrangements.
- PTC NEWS
