2 Indians on Haj pilgrimage die in elevator crash in Makkah

Two Indian Haj pilgrims have been reported dead following an elevator accident in their accommodation in Aziziyah district of Makkah in Saudi Arabia on Thursday.

The pilgrims who had lost their lives were identified as Md. Siddiq (74), a resident of Kathihar district and Md. Abdul Lateef (64) resident of Kishanganj, both in Bihar. The victims were accommodated in building No. 145, according to sources.

One pilgrim fell down the elevator shaft in the cellar and died from injuries and while another was crushed to death after he was struck between the doors of the elevator, said sources.

Though there were rumours that some pilgrims were also injured, however, there were no injuries and the remaining pilgrims are safe, they added.

The Indian authorities so far have not made public about the tragic incident.

The pilgrims from the building were shifted to a nearby building on the same evening.

The Haj pilgrims mainly from Bihar have been complaining about basic facilities in their accommodation.

It is noteworthy to mention that recently Indian officials stated that the Indian Haj Mission hired nearly 400 buildings in Aziziah area of Makkah to house pilgrims arriving through the Haj Committee of India and each building inspected by team of experts led by CEO of the Haj Committee with the coordination of Indian Consulate in Jeddah.