Egyptian Government Suspends 16 Companies Following Deaths at Annual Hajj Pilgrimage
After the deadly pilgrimage to Mecca, Egypt suspended licenses of 16 tour companies for failing to provide essential services.
Following the recent hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the Egyptian government has taken decisive action against tour companies accused of negligence, announcing the suspension of licenses for 16 travel companies.
Official Death Toll
At least 450 pilgrims lost their lives during the pilgrimage, as they endured extreme temperatures ranging from 108 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (42 to 49 degrees Celsius). However, the actual death toll is anticipated to be significantly higher as governments continue to gather more accurate information on the fatalities. Egypt, for instance, has officially confirmed 31 deaths, but the final count is expected to be much higher.
Government Allegations
The Egyptian government cited the failure of the travel companies to provide essential services such as medical care and appropriate accommodation for the pilgrims. This lack of support resulted in exhaustion and suffering among the pilgrims due to the extreme temperatures.
Unregistered Agencies and Visa Issues
Reports have emerged indicating that some travel agencies may not have registered officially for the pilgrimage, possibly to avoid the high costs associated with package tours. Additionally, companies have been criticized for allowing pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia on personal visas instead of hajj visas, depriving them of access to medical care and the sacred sites.
Share news