Saudi Says 1,301 Deaths During Hajj, Most Pilgrims Unregistered: Report
NDTV
"Regrettably, the number of mortalities reached 1,301, with 83 percent being unauthorised to perform hajj and having walked long distances under direct sunlight, without adequate shelter or comfort," the official Saudi Press Agency reported.
Saudi Arabia said Sunday that more than 1,300 pilgrims died during the hajj pilgrimage which unfolded during intense heat, and that most of those who have died did not have official permits.
"Regrettably, the number of mortalities reached 1,301, with 83 percent being unauthorised to perform hajj and having walked long distances under direct sunlight, without adequate shelter or comfort," the official Saudi Press Agency reported.
An AFP tally last week, based on official statements and reports from diplomats involved in their countries' responses, put the count at more than 1,100.
