وزير النقل يتولى رئاسة الاجتماع الرابع للجنة الإشرافية ويطلق مبادرات مبتكرة استعدادًا لموسم الحج

Minister of Transport Discusses Logistics for Hajj Season 1446

Today in Mecca, His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, chaired the fourth meeting of the supervisory committee overseeing the transportation and logistics system for Hajj season 1446 AH. The assembly took place at the operational control center of the Saudi Railways Company ("SAR") and included key leaders from various transportation and logistics agencies.

The meeting focused on the latest developments in operational readiness, coordination among agencies within the system, and innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing the comfort and security of the Hajj guests. Al-Jasser emphasized the importance of integration across different entities to elevate the service levels and ensure a memorable experience for the pilgrims.

During the meeting, he reiterated the directives from the wise leadership of the Kingdom, stressing the need to operate with utmost efficiency and excellence in implementing organizational plans. All resources and efforts must be synergized to serve the Hajj visitors.

Following the meeting, Engineer Al-Jasser and other leaders conducted a field survey to assess the readiness of transportation and logistics facilities in Mecca. This included an evaluation of roads leading to the sacred sites. Teams from the General Authority for Roads inspected over 7,400 kilometers of roadways to confirm their safety and readiness for the arrival of pilgrims. During the visit, two new initiatives were launched: a flexible asphalt program and a "cold lane" project, both executed by the General Authority for Roads. The expansion of the flexible asphalt initiative reached 33% compared to the previous year, while the cold lane project saw an increase of 82% in comparison to Hajj season 1445 AH. These initiatives aim to improve the mobility environment and enhance comfort for the pilgrims.

The Minister then visited the operation and control center for the sacred trains, reviewing simulators for train movements during the Hajj season to evaluate operational readiness and strengthen the competencies of technical and field teams. He also took a train ride to the Arafat station as part of the tour.

Concluding the field visit, Al-Jasser inspected the Haramain High-Speed Railway station in Al-Rusifah, where he reviewed operational plans that encompass more than 4,700 trips and two million seats—marking a 25% increase in capacity compared to the previous year—readied to service the Hajj guests.

He also observed the advanced technology employed by the National Transport Safety Center, which includes the use of drones as a cutting-edge tool for accurately documenting accident sites and incidents. These drones can capture detailed panoramic 3D aerial images, facilitating comprehensive scene analysis and significantly enhancing the efficiency of technical investigations.

Moreover, Al-Jasser examined the latest innovative solutions and technologies adopted by the Public Transport Authority to ensure compliance and oversight at the Al-Nawaria checkpoint. He reviewed the mechanisms for verifying the compliance of passenger transport buses, cargo trucks, and taxis with relevant permits and regulations, as well as the supervision of public transport drivers to ensure adherence to public etiquette, respectful interaction with passengers, and the protection of their privacy.

He also examined the advanced technologies implemented by the Saudi Postal Corporation ("SPL") in the Al-Masfalah district, which included tablets and cooling vests for scooter drivers, ensuring the branch meets necessary operational standards and provides high-quality services for the pilgrims at the holy sites.

It is noteworthy that the transportation and logistics system continually embraces innovative solutions and modern technologies each year, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining the overall travel experience, thereby improving the quality of services provided to the esteemed guests of Allah during every season of Hajj.