Saudi Hajj Pilgrimage Begins Under Tight Security Measures
According to webangah News Agency, nearly 1.5 million Muslims have gathered in Mecca and commenced this year’s Hajj rituals amid extreme heat and stringent saudi safety protocols.
The pilgrimage began with Saudi Arabia implementing strict measures to prevent heat-related illnesses among pilgrims,as temperatures this year have reached approximately 52°C (125°F).
Last year, 1,301 pilgrims died due to heatstroke during the event.
Official statistics indicate Saudi Arabia has mobilized over 250,000 personnel and coordinated between more than 40 government agencies to combat the heatwave risks for pilgrims.
Saudi authorities report expanding shaded areas at ritual sites by 50,000 square meters, deploying thousands of medical staff among pilgrims, and installing over 400 cooling units. The Grand Mosque’s ventilation system – the largest of its kind – refreshes indoor air more than nine times daily.
Saudi officials have installed air-cooling systems along the 4-kilometer route leading to Mount Arafat this year. They are also using
