Hajj is essentially a religious worship for Muslims. Millions of Muslims who are physically and financially able come from all over the world to perform Hajj and obey Allah’s order. Hajj is known as one of the largest gatherings in the world. Muslims perform Hajj in the holy city of Makkah, which is located in Saudi Arabia. 
The government of Saudi Arabia takes many steps every year to help Muslims perform Hajj easily. This year, several measures were taken to reduce the heat during Hajj, such as installing misting systems and portable water stations, covering floors with white marble, providing cold Zamzam water around the clock, and setting up air conditioners, tents, mist fans, large sun shields, and more.
Unfortunately, a tragic incident occurred during Hajj this year. More than 1,000 pilgrims suffered death due to extreme heat and heat-related complications, exacerbated by overcrowding and pre-existing health conditions. It is truly a sad event, as the death of 1,000 people is significant. As millions of Muslims perform Hajj every year with great enthusiasm, the loss of 1,000 lives at such a religious event is not normal.
Now, let me share my point of view on this. I am sure fewer people will agree with me, and that’s okay. As we know, the government of Saudi Arabia tries its best every year to maintain peace and help pilgrims perform Hajj in a better way. Despite all these efforts, a tragedy has happened. In my opinion, the mistake is ours. It’s time to learn from ants – I mean, it’s time to learn discipline.
As we know, millions of people gather in Makkah every year to perform Hajj, and we cannot restrict people from coming. So, what we can do is develop a civic sense and try our best to maintain discipline at such events. Because the loss of 1,000 lives is not normal. If we want to ensure peaceful events, let’s each try our best to maintain discipline.
Writer: Areeqa Rao
Editor’s Note: This story was submitted by Areeqa Rao, a grade 10 student at Amina Girls Higher Secondary School – AGS.in Lodhran. Areeqa, who has been writing since grade seven, joined special classes in the English Language Programme in the summer of 2022, where she was encouraged to write and share her work more often.
