Pilgrims Face Steep Taxi Prices in Mecca

Hundreds of thousands of Muslims in Mecca for pilgrimage are experiencing soaring taxi prices due to traffic congestion near the Kaaba. With shuttle services from Aziziye halted three days before Tarwiyah Day, transportation costs have surged by 3 to 20 times. Pilgrims, especially those over 60, are forced to pay up to 100 riyals ($26) for short taxi rides. Many resort to walking or using wheelchairs. Criticism grows over the lack of a rail system to alleviate traffic woes. Additionally, increased police checks are causing further delays.