Over 717 pilgrims were killed on Thursday in a stampede at Mina, which is located outside the Muslim holy city of Mecca. As many as 2 million people perform the annual hajj.
Eye witnesses said, the tragic incident happened at Street 204 of the camp city at Mina, when pilgrims actively participated in the ritual “stone the devil” by throwing pebbles at three large pillars, officials said.
Among 717, fourteen Indians were killed, during the symbolic stoning of the devil, including a woman and a volunteer, Indian Consulate officials in Jeddah said.
The Indian consulate has issued helpline numbers – 00966125458000 and 00966125496000. Toll free number for pilgrims in the Kingdom is 8002477786.
4,000 people were taking part in rescue efforts, along with 220 ambulances.
TV footage from the incident site showed the ground strewn with injured people. Women and old men were screaming.
THE LIST OF DEAD AND INJURED INDIANS IN TODAY’S MINA STAMPEDE :
