The government disclosed a staggering death toll of 201 Indian pilgrims during the Haj pilgrimage of 2024, with most fatalities attributed to cardio-respiratory and cardio-pulmonary arrests, as per Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju's statement to the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
In his written reply, Minister Rijiju emphasised the government's dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian pilgrims.
"As of 21st July 2024, 201 Indian pilgrims have died during the Haj pilgrimage, with a majority attributed to cardio-respiratory and cardio-pulmonary arrests," he informed.
The data revealed that over 70 percent of these fatalities involved pilgrims aged 60 and above. The minister highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing the overall Haj experience for Indian pilgrims through several progressive reforms.
"In pursuit of this objective, a number of progressive reforms have been introduced in the last few years, leading to qualitative improvements in the Haj experience," Rijiju stated.
One significant reform is the increase in the number of Khadim-ul-Hujjaj (KuH), or guides, deployed by the Haj Committee of India. This year, 641 KuH were sent to assist pilgrims, more than double the number from the previous year.
Furthermore, the number of temporary deputationists, including administrative and medical staff, increased to 620 in Haj 2024 from 461 in 2023. These officials were tasked with ensuring efficient management and administration during the pilgrimage.
Special accommodations and medical services were arranged for the 4,558 women pilgrims, providing them with dedicated buildings and healthcare facilities.
To address the challenges posed by Saudi Arabia's harsh climatic conditions, the government implemented specific interventions.
In Mecca, three medical centers with a total capacity of 100 beds were operationalised, along with 14 medical dispensaries, a command control center, 20 Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, and a 24-hour helpline available throughout the Haj period.
In Madinah, a 20-bed medical center was established, supported by two dispensaries, a control command center, four BLS ambulances, and a 24-hour helpline.
Additionally, a medical dispensary and helpline were set up at the Jeddah Haj Terminal to cater to pilgrims' healthcare needs during arrival and departure.
"For the first time, emergency teams were deployed at Haramain High-Speed Railway stations, providing on-ground medical assistance.
A dedicated task force consisting of six teams provided medical aid during Friday prayers at the Holy Mosque," Rijiju noted.
The government's proactive measures underscore its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of Indian pilgrims during the Haj pilgrimage, reflecting a broader effort to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience while addressing critical health risks faced by the elderly and vulnerable.
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