Pakistani dies while building World Cup stadium in Saudi Arabia

A Pakistani migrant worker named Muhammad Arshad lost his life while working on the construction of a new stadium for the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia. According to reports, the tragic incident took place earlier this month at the Aramco Stadium in Al-Khobar.

Arshad, who was working as a foreman, fell from the upper level of the stadium while involved in construction work. Belgian construction company Besix Group, whose subsidiary Six Construct is a key contractor for the project, confirmed the incident.

The company explained that Arshad and two other workers were performing tasks at a height when the platform they were standing  on tilted. Although all three workers had put on safety gear, Arshad was not attached to an anchor point and fell. He suffered severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he passed away.

Saudi authorities are now investigating the accident. Besix Group stated that they are fully cooperating with the inquiry. They also urged workers not to share images of the incident on social media out of respect for Arshad's family.

Arshad, who was in his mid-30s, has left behind three young sons, between two and seven-year-old. His father Muhammad Bashir expressed deep grief and said the loss would greatly affect the family's future, as Arshad was their sole breadwinner.

The family has been assured that they will receive Arshad's pending salary and benefits. Saudi labour laws require employers to provide compensation in case of a worker's death. Besix Group has confirmed that they are making necessary arrangements to support the family and process all payments promptly.

The Aramco Stadium, a 47,000-seat venue, is in the final stages of construction. Thousands of migrant workers, mainly from Pakistan and Bangladesh, are working in shifts to complete the project. The stadium is being developed by Aramco, Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil company, which recently became FIFA's top sponsor.