Event happened after the stampede in Mina near Mecca, where hundreds of thousands of pilgrims were taking part in the last major rite of the hajj.

According to Saudi disaster officials, the incident occurred in Mina, near Mecca, at 9 am local time (0600 GMT) after two large masses of pilgrims coming down streets 204 and 223 fused together.

The incident took place as people were heading to participate in the symbolic stoning of Satan.

Over 220 ambulances and 4,000 rescue workers have reportedly been sent to the location.

“Work is underway to separate large groups of people and direct pilgrims to alternative routes,” the Saudi Civil Defense said.

During a meeting with senior officials responsible for the pilgrimage in Mina, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, who heads the Saudi hajj committee, ordered an investigation into the deadly stampede.