On the evening of Monday, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the operational readiness in Makkah and Jeddah. This extensive visit aimed to ensure the effectiveness of the logistical plans designed to serve the pilgrims during the 1446H Hajj season.
During his tour, Al-Jasser visited several key facilities and locations, including the Saudi Company for Hajj and Umrah Services, the General Transport Center, mobile service locations along the Migration Route, and the Operations and Control Center associated with the Airports Holding Company. The inspection culminated at King Abdulaziz International Airport, specifically in Terminal 1, and the Haramain High-Speed Railway station.
The minister began his visits in Makkah and the holy sites, where he reviewed the services offered by the Saudi Company for Hajj and Umrah at these sacred places. This company provides an array of comprehensive services tailored for the guests of Allah, ensuring that their spiritual journey is as seamless and rewarding as possible.
At the General Transport Center, which operates under the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, Al-Jasser examined the strategic plans that are in place to enhance transportation capacity. These initiatives involve coordinating efforts among various stakeholders, which is essential for facilitating smooth and safe mobility for pilgrims as they perform their religious duties.
On the Migration Route, the minister inspected mobile service sites designated for supporting pilgrims in the event of bus breakdowns. These facilities are equipped to provide fuel services for vehicles and can be contacted through the unified call center (938). Moreover, they offer air-conditioned vehicles stocked with cold beverages to alleviate any discomfort that pilgrims might encounter along their journey.
In Jeddah, Al-Jasser paid a visit to the Operations and Control Center of the Airports Holding Company. He learned about the data monitoring and analysis systems that track the flow of pilgrim flights, which are crucial for managing the influx of arrivals during the Hajj season. He also reviewed crisis management strategies in place to ensure a high level of efficiency in handling operational emergencies.
The minister then examined Terminal 1 at King Abdulaziz International Airport to scrutinize the efficiency of operations for the arrival and departure of pilgrims. He concluded his inspection with a visit to the Haramain High-Speed Railway station, discovering its pivotal role in facilitating the movement of pilgrims by increasing the frequency of trains to one departure every hour.
This thorough examination reflects the government’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for pilgrims, ensuring that all logistical measures are meticulously coordinated to accommodate the significant number of visitors expected during the Hajj season. With the contributions of various agencies, the focus remains on enhancing accessibility, safety, and comfort for those fulfilling their religious obligations.
Overall, Al-Jasser’s inspections underscore the importance of robust planning and effective communication among all relevant parties involved in managing the logistics of the Hajj. His observations will likely lead to further enhancements in the services rendered during this holy season, aligning with the overarching goal of ensuring a spiritually rewarding experience for the millions of Muslims who travel to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage each year.
