The death toll of Indian citizens has risen to 22 in the Mecca stampede. The number is expected to shoot up as authorities are still trying to identify people. At least, 13 Indians were also among over 863 people injured in the tragedy.
Of the 18 Indians killed, 11 were from Gujarat, three from Tamil Nadu and one each from Telangana, Kerala, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Out of the 18 Indians killed, four persons, who were later found among the dead, have been identified as — Rasul Ali from Jharkhand, Moinuddin from Uttar Pradesh, Hafijabahen Satarsha Diwan from Gujarat and Syed Abdul Hussain from Gujarat.
“Our officials on the ground in Makkah have been working continuously to ascertain information and reach out to family members of missing pilgrims. According to latest information, 18 Indians have died in the tragedy. Our Mission is working with Saudi authorities and family members to confirm the identities of the deceased and expedite formalities for release of the mortal remains,” said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of External Affairs Ministry.
The death toll in Mecca accident has reached 769 so far. Nearly 1.5 lakh Indians visit Mecaa each year for Haj.