KARBALA: More than 600 pilgrims in Iraq were briefly hospitalized with respiratory problems after inhaling chlorine as the result of a leak at a water treatment station, authorities said Sunday. The incident took place overnight on the route between the two Shiite holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, located in the center and south of Iraq respectively. This year, several million Shiite Muslim pilgrims are expected to make their way to Karbala, which houses the shrines of the revered Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas.

Authorities say the incident happened overnight between the two Shia holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.

Over 600 pilgrims hospitalized in Iraq due to chlorine leak during pilgrimage, all recovered and left hospital.

KARBALA: More than 600 pilgrims in Iraq were briefly hospitalized with respiratory problems after inhaling chlorine as the result of a leak at a water treatment station,…