Pakistani hajj pilgrims warned of heatstroke

PHM issues advisory after Saudi heat warning

MAKKAH:

Pakistan Hajj Mission (PHM) on Tuesday advised Pakistani pilgrims to take all possible precautionary measures against heatstroke, especially during the Hajj days, following a severe heat warning issued by the Saudi National Centre for Meteorology.

This year, Hajj is expected to take place from June 14 to June 19, coinciding with the peak of sweltering summer temperatures in the region, raising concerns about the well-being of millions of pilgrims gathering in Makkah from across the world.

“We advise Pakistani pilgrims to avoid sun exposure, particularly during the five Hajj days in Mashair from 8-12 Zilhaj. Drink plenty of water, preferably ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts), use umbrellas, and spend maximum time in air-cooled or air-conditioned tents and shaded areas/tracks,” the PHM Head/Director General (Hajj) told APP.

He emphasized that although the government of Pakistan has made timely and elaborate arrangements, including transport, accommodation and catering in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalfa, there would be no homelike comfort in the tent villages.

“It will be a hard time amid millions of people and hot weather conditions, so be prepared for it,” he cautioned.
To a question, the PHM head said around 2.5 million faithful from across the world, including 179,210 from Pakistan, would perform the religious obligation of Hajj this year.

He noted that the Mission and its supporting staff, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, as well as local and Pakistan-based mouavineen, were performing duties in shifts round-the-clock to extend maximum facilities to the guests of Allah Almighty.

He said around 40,000 intending Pakistani Hajj pilgrims have so far arrived in Madinah and Makkah through 164 flights under the government scheme. Meanwhile, the number of arrived pilgrims under the private scheme stood at 5,500, he added.

The Pakistan Hajj Mission is dedicated to ensuring the safety and comfort of Pakistani pilgrims during this year’s Hajj, despite the challenging weather conditions. Through meticulous planning, continuous support and real-time communication, the mission aims to provide a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all pilgrims.