By Dinka on 2006-12-26 
Authorities in Saudi Arabia say more than 1.5 million Muslims have arrived so far to take part in the annual hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which starts in a few days.
The Saudi Health Ministry says more than 9,600 medical personnel are being mobilized and 21 field hospitals set up at Mecca and Medina, Islam's two holiest places, for this year's pilgrimage.
Increased security measures are also being implemented to protect against possible sectarian and militant attacks or stampedes during the five-day ritual.
Copyright (c) 2006. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org
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