Makkah's Ramadan plan: Maintenance of bridges and main roads to serve pilgrims
A comprehensive plan to serve the guests of God during Ramadan
With the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, which sees millions of Muslims from around the world flock to Mecca to perform Umrah, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, represented by the Holy Capital Municipality, has announced that it has raised its readiness to the highest level and finalized its operational plans to ensure the best possible services for pilgrims. This comprehensive plan includes the maintenance and operation of a vast network of vital infrastructure, encompassing 16 bridges and 8 main roads, to ensure smooth traffic flow and facilitate access for pilgrims to the Grand Mosque and its surrounding areas.
Historical context and the importance of seasonal preparations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, places paramount importance on the comfort and safety of pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. Preparations for the Ramadan and Hajj seasons are an ongoing, year-round process, with infrastructure development and service upgrades being regularly implemented. These annual efforts are part of a long-standing commitment to providing a safe and accessible spiritual experience for Muslims. These projects align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to increase the capacity to accommodate pilgrims and provide world-class services, reflecting the Kingdom's leading role in the Islamic world.
Details of the infrastructure operational plan
Extensive preparations included upgrading the network of tunnels that traverse the mountains of Mecca, totaling 22,515 meters in length, in addition to 6,000 meters of service tunnels. These tunnels play a pivotal role in alleviating congestion on surface roads and providing rapid passage for vehicles and pedestrians. Maintenance and upgrades were also completed on 16 bridges and 8 main roads to ensure their safety and capacity to handle the anticipated high traffic volume during peak Ramadan times. A massive workforce of 13,549 workers, supported by 912 advanced vehicles and equipment, was mobilized to efficiently execute all field tasks. To enhance cleanliness and environmental sanitation efforts, more than 47,900 waste containers were distributed throughout the city to ensure its cleanliness around the clock.
Expected impact and importance of the project
These preparations have a direct and positive impact on several levels. Locally, they contribute to organizing traffic flow within Mecca and easing the burden on its residents. Internationally, they ensure a smooth and comfortable Umrah experience for millions of pilgrims from around the world, enhancing the Kingdom's positive image as a nation capable of efficiently and effectively managing the world's largest religious gatherings. The success of these operational plans extends beyond simply facilitating the performance of religious rites; it also includes providing a healthy and safe environment befitting the sanctity of the place and time, and reaffirms the Kingdom's continued commitment to serving the pilgrims as a top priority.
