Deputy Minister of Environment Stresses the Need to Enhance Preparedness Across All Ministry Sectors for the Upcoming Hajj Season
Preparation Efforts for the Upcoming Hajj Season Advancing Under Environmental Ministry Leadership
In a recent meeting, Engineer Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mushayti, the Deputy Minister for Environment, Water, and Agriculture, underscored the significance of enhancing operational readiness across all sectors in anticipation of this year’s Hajj season. He emphasized the necessity of fostering integration and coordination with various related entities to ensure optimal services for pilgrims and Umrah performers while adhering to the highest safety standards.
This statement came during a meeting held at the ministry’s branch in the Makkah region, which was attended by leadership and personnel from the relevant sectors. The gathering was part of the ministry’s preparations for the upcoming Hajj season in 1446 AH. Al-Mushayti reviewed the operational readiness of the different departments within the ministry and their preparations to support the Hajj season, paying particular attention to ensuring the availability of agricultural and food products in public markets. This is crucial for meeting the needs of the guests of Allah and maintaining stability in the food supply chain.
Following the meeting, the Deputy Minister undertook a field tour to inspect the Jeddah Islamic Port quarantine facilities. He observed the procedures in place for receiving live animals, the veterinary inspection processes, and adherence to both national and international health regulations to guarantee the safety of animal shipments. Furthermore, he visited the central laboratory associated with the ministry at the port where he reviewed the process of testing and analyzing animal samples. The laboratory utilizes cutting-edge technologies that ensure rapid and accurate results, reinforcing the nation’s biosecurity measures, especially during the Hajj season when there is a significant increase in livestock imports.
During his visit, Al-Mushayti also assessed the work of the ministry’s office in the holy city and inspected several local slaughterhouses in the area. He confirmed that the veterinary and technical operational systems are functioning at peak preparedness and efficiency. This readiness is fundamental to ensuring that livestock is received in a hygienic and safe manner, fulfilling public health standards and aligning with Saudi Arabia’s objectives for a successful Hajj season, in line with Vision 2030. He highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and the General Authority for Ports, as well as all partner entities, to ensure cohesive procedures and uphold the highest quality standards in serving the pilgrims.
During his visit, the Deputy Minister also engaged with several residents of the area, listening to their inquiries and feedback regarding the services provided by the ministry. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting service projects in the fields of environment, water, and agriculture, pledging to address any challenges that may hinder the delivery of high-quality services to achieve the objectives set forth in Saudi Vision 2030.
In conclusion, Al-Mushayti expressed pride in the dedicated efforts of the personnel working across all veterinary and laboratory facilities. He reiterated the ministry’s continuous support for developing national capacities and enhancing operational abilities in accordance with the best contemporary practices. This steadfast commitment aims to ensure a successful and safe Hajj experience for millions of pilgrims.
