Comprehensive Environmental Plan Launched For Hajj Season In Saudi Holy Sites

The National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC) has unveiled its strategy for this year's Hajj season in Makkah, Madinah, and other holy sites. The plan is divided into three phases, ensuring that all facilities and activities used by pilgrims are closely monitored from their journey to the holy sites through the Hajj rituals until the end of the season.

NCEC spokesperson Saad Al-Matrafi stated that the first phase began on the 20th of Dhu Al-Qi'dah. This phase involves approximately 1,500 thorough inspection tours covering activities, complexes, and roads used by pilgrims to reach Makkah and Madinah. The inspected routes include Al Hada Road, Al Sail Road, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road, Hijrah Road, and Qassim Road.

Al-Matrafi highlighted that the 1445 Hajj season plan was developed based on data from the previous season. A comprehensive database was created to classify facilities and sites, identify their condition, and pinpoint responsible authorities. This enables a quick response if pollutants are detected, ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims.

"In the first phase, we collected samples from soil, groundwater, and wells supplying the holy cities. We also monitored air quality and noise levels, providing daily reports to relevant authorities," Al-Matrafi explained.

The second phase will commence at the start of Dhu Al-Hijjah and continue until the third day of Tashreeq. This phase focuses on continuously monitoring environmentally influential sites in Makkah and other holy sites to detect potential violations. Center inspectors will measure air quality and noise levels daily.

Field teams had a positive impact during last year's Hajj season by quickly addressing cases that did not comply with environmental norms. This improved the quality of the environment for pilgrims.

Phase Three: Post-Hajj Assessments

The third phase will be conducted after Hajj. It includes visits to ensure that the environment was not negatively impacted. This phase also involves monitoring slaughterhouses and waste-management facilities to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

"Protecting the environment and adhering to environmental standards are crucial to serving pilgrims and preserving natural resources. The aim is to improve air, water, and soil quality throughout the Kingdom," Al-Matrafi said.

With inputs from SPA