Kathmandu, Jun 24: The Saudi Arabian administration has released official figures indicating that 1,301 pilgrims died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. The Saudi authorities have attributed these deaths to extreme heat conditions and illegal travel.

This year’s Hajj, which occurred from June 14 to 19, took place amidst record-breaking summer temperatures, reaching nearly 52 degrees Celsius. According to Saudi officials, four out of every five pilgrims who died did not have valid permits and were traveling without proper shelter, exacerbating their vulnerability to the intense heat. Many of the deceased were elderly or ill.

Saudi Arabia’s Health Minister, Fahd Al-Jalajel, stated that efforts are being made to raise awareness among pilgrims about the dangers of extreme heat and preventive measures. The Saudi government reported that approximately 500,000 people received medical treatment at health centers, including 140,000 who traveled without permission.

The country faces criticism for not providing adequate facilities to protect the lives of pilgrims, especially those who undertake the pilgrimage without the necessary permits. Among the deceased, a significant number were Egyptians, with reports indicating that 658 Egyptian pilgrims have died so far during this year’s Hajj.