NCEC Unveils Environmental Plan For Hajj In Makkah And Madinah
Saudi Arabia's National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC) has outlined its comprehensive environmental plan for the forthcoming Hajj season, set to unfold in the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, as well as other Holy sites, according to Saudi Press Agency (SPA). This year's strategy is meticulously divided into three distinct phases, ensuring that all facilities and activities associated with the pilgrims' journey are under vigilant scrutiny from their arrival to the conclusion of the Hajj.
NCEC spokesperson, Saad Al-Matrafi, disclosed that the preliminary phase kicked off on the 20th of Dhu Al-Qi'dah, launching over 1,500 detailed inspection tours. These inspections span across various sectors including the thoroughfares such as Al Hada Road, Al Sail Road, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road, Hijrah Road, and Qassim Road, pivotal in facilitating pilgrims' access to the holy cities.
Al-Matrafi shared insights into the preparatory process, stating, "The 1445 Hajj season plan was formulated leveraging insights from the previous season." A nuanced database now exists, cataloguing facilities and sites, alongside a clear delineation of jurisdictional authority, thus ensuring swift action upon detecting any environmental pollutants, safeguarding the pilgrims' well-being.
During the first phase, critical environmental evaluations were conducted, including soil and groundwater sampling and air quality and noise monitoring, with findings promptly reported to the relevant authorities. The second phase, commencing at the beginning of Dhu Al-Hijjah and extending until the third day of Tashreeq, will intensify the environmental scrutiny in Makkah and surrounding holy sites, with daily assessments of air quality and noise levels.
Al-Matrafi underscored the pivotal role of field teams, whose proactive measures in the previous year's Hajj significantly enhanced the environmental conditions for pilgrims. The third and final phase, post-Hajj, will focus on evaluating the environmental impact, ensuring that slaughterhouses and waste-management facilities are in compliance with environmental standards.
"Protecting the environment and adhering to environmental standards are paramount in serving the pilgrims and conserving natural resources," Al-Matrafi emphasized. The overarching goal is to enhance the quality of air, water, and soil across the Kingdom, reflecting NCEC's commitment to environmental stewardship during one of the largest annual religious gatherings globally.
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