Tragic Loss: Over 200 Indian Pilgrims Die During Haj 2024

More than 200 Indian pilgrims died during the Haj pilgrimage in 2024, mainly due to cardio-respiratory and cardio-pulmonary arrests. The Indian government has taken significant measures to ensure the safety and welfare of pilgrims, including increasing medical support and deploying additional personnel to manage the pilgrimage.

More than 200 Indian pilgrims died during the Haj pilgrimage in 2024, with most fatalities attributed to cardio-respiratory and cardio-pulmonary arrests, the government informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasized that the Indian government has prioritized the successful conduct of Haj operations, focusing on the safety and well-being of pilgrims. As of July 21, 2024, 201 Indian pilgrims had died, mainly those aged 60 and above.

The government has introduced several reforms to improve the overall Haj experience. This year, the number of Khadim-ul-Hujjaj (KuH) deployed was over double the previous year’s, totaling 641. Additionally, the number of temporary staff for Haj management increased from 461 in 2023 to 620 in 2024.

Special provisions were made for the 4,558 women pilgrims, including dedicated buildings for accommodation and medical services. To counteract adverse climatic conditions, three medical centers with 100 beds were set up in Mecca, alongside multiple dispensaries, a command control center, and ambulances. Similar facilities were established in Madinah and at the Jeddah Haj Terminal.

For the first time, emergency teams were also deployed at Haramain High-Speed Railway stations, and a dedicated task force provided medical aid during Friday prayers at the Holy Mosque.