Saudi restricts pilgrims’ movement as temperature soars in Muna

Saudi Arabia authorities on Monday issued a five-hour movement restriction at Muna, Saudi Arabia to avoid devastating health risks arising from increased temperature in the sacred area.

The order however directed pilgrims temporarily residing at the tent city of Muna, to remain under their cooling camp between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm Monday.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had recently warned Nigerian pilgrims to avoid unnecessary exposure to the heat weather already predicted to hit 50 degrees Celsius at Muna, one of the sacred sites where pilgrims cast pebbles against devils.

Critical health implications precipitating the high temperature, include heatstroke, sudden collapse, and death, NAHCON warned.

By the directives of the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, and to ensure the well-being of pilgrims amidst high temperatures and to prevent heat stress, the following measures have been implemented:

“A new health guideline from Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, prohibited pilgrims from proceeding to Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11 am to 4 pm.

“The notice further hinted that security personnel will be stationed at camps to enforce this restriction and prevent any pilgrim from departing before 4 pm.

“The Office of Hajj Affairs and service providers are tasked with ensuring compliance, and they will bear responsibility for any violations thereof. We pray for Allah’s protection over the pilgrims and the acceptance of their Hajj.”