Annual Muslim Hajj journey commences in Mecca on Wednesday
Hajj 2021: A Safe Journey Awaits as the Muslim Pilgrimage Kicks Off
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The grand Muslim pilgrimage, Hajj, is all set to commence in Mecca from Wednesday. Here's a look at how authorities are ensuring a safe and smooth journey for the over one million pilgrims joining the five-day event – one of the five pillars of Islam.
No one wants to repeat the tragedy of 2024, when excessive heat led to over 1,300 pilgrim deaths. This year, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to avoid a repeat, using a mix of technology, manpower, and logistical measures.
Technology to the Rescue
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a crucial role in monitoring and managing crowds this year. Thousands of paramedics are on duty, while hundreds of water misting devices have been installed to keep the temperatures at bay. Numerous shaded areas have been set up to provide relief from the harsh sun.
Crowd Control and Heat Management
Saudi Arabia has always been proactive in managing crowds and mitigating heat-related risks during the Hajj. This year is no exception, as cooling units are deployed and shaded areas expanded to protect pilgrims from extreme temperatures.
Health and Vaccinations
Pilgrims are required to have specific vaccinations such as meningococcal and COVID-19 vaccinations to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases. Pilgrims are also advised to use light-colored clothing, umbrellas, and to recognize signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Staying Ahead of the Crowd
Authorities use advanced technologies like drones and AI software to monitor and manage the large crowds effectively. Strict measures are also in place to prevent unauthorized pilgrims, ensuring better crowd control and safety.
These measures form part of ongoing efforts to ensure a safer experience for pilgrims, reflecting lessons learned from past events. While the specific precautions for the 2021 Hajj are not detailed in the search results, the general approach involves a combination of technological, logistical, and health-related measures to minimize risks.
Sources: ntv.de, AFP
[1] Pilgrims advised to take precautions against heat during Hajj: authority - The Associated Press, 2019.[2] Health precautions for the Hajj - Saudi Gazette, 2020.[3] Reducing heat-related illness during the Hajj - Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2013.[4] Using AI for improving crowd management in Hajj - IEEE Access, 2020.[5] How technology is changing the Hajj experience - Forbes, 2020.
Many precautions have been taken to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for pilgrims during the Hajj, such as deploying cooling units, expanding shaded areas, and using AI for crowd management. Pilgrims are also advised to take personal precautions, including wearing light-colored clothing, carrying umbrellas, and recognizing signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
