Hajj stampede: Indian death toll rises to 22

New Delhi, Sept 26: The death toll of Indian pilgrims has risen to 22 in the grisly stampede at the Hajj which has so far claimed the lives of 717 people, the worst tragedy to hit the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia in 25 years.

It was the second worst ever tragedy to hit the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia in the month of September this year.

"The number of Indian lives lost in Haj stampede has now risen to 22. Some more bodies are to be identified," tweeted external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

At least 863 pilgrims were also injured in the mishap in Mina during the Haj's last major ritual the stoning of devil.

A massive construction crane crashed into Mecca's Grand Mosque in stormy weather that left at least 107 people and injuring 238. The incident took place days before the annual hajj pilgrimage.

OneIndia News