MAKKAH — Pilgrims who stayed back in Mina on Tuesday night to perform the stoning ritual for the fourth consecutive day, threw pebbles at three Jamarat on Wednesday afternoon. Pilgrims hurled seven pebbles each, first at Jamarat Al-Sugra, then at Jamarat Al-Wusta, and finally at Jamarat Al-Aqaba in a calm and peaceful atmosphere inside the sprawling Jamarat Complex manned by a contingent of security forces, health workers and volunteers. They then left Mina for Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Wida (Farewell Tawaf), marking the end of the hassle-free annual pilgrimage on a joyous and spiritual note. Although Hajj concludes officially on Wednesday, the third day of Tashreeq, pilgrims were allowed to hasten to complete it the previous day. By taking advantage of this concession, most pilgrims left Mina before sunset of Tuesday. After completing the stoning ritual this afternoon, pilgrims returned to their accommodation in Mina camps, packed their baggage and boarded buses that took them to Makkah to perform Farewell Tawaf. They left the Tent City of Mina, carrying sweet memories and self-realization of fulfilling the once-in-lifetime spiritual journey. They performed the rituals in the midst of a temperature spike with reporting hundreds of heat stroke cases among the pilgrims. The Saudi health authorities recorded more than 2,700 cases of heat exhaustion on Sunday, the first day of stoning, alone. Meanwhile, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques announced on Wednesday the successful execution of its operational plan for the Hajj season of 2024. It said that this achievement reflects the dedication and tireless efforts of the authority's personnel who ensured a smooth conduct of the annual pilgrimage. The plan prioritized creating a seamless and comfortable experience for pilgrims. The plan features high-quality infrastructure improvements including advanced cooling systems, enhanced audio-visual systems, and door systems for efficient crowd control. Additionally, services catered to all age groups and those with disabilities, featuring electric vehicles for tawaf and sa'i on the Grand Mosque's rooftop, alongside well-maintained washrooms and ablution facilities. The authority ensured the constant and effective operation of these services and systems throughout the Hajj period, guaranteeing a faith-filled environment for pilgrims. The focus extended to ensuring the consistent availability of Zamzam water for pilgrims. Makkah is now witnessing the departure of pilgrims after successfully completing their Hajj rituals. They were transported by buses provided by the General Syndicate of Cars. Departing pilgrims expressed their deep gratitude for the exceptional organization and services provided. Pilgrims offered heartfelt thanks to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support. Pilgrims were particularly impressed by the exceptional facilities, dedicated services, and warm treatment they received throughout their pilgrimage journey.
