Makkah, November 25, 2024 – As the rainy season sets in, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has put in place a comprehensive and proactive plan to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of Umrah performers visiting the Grand Mosque in Makkah. This initiative reflects the authority's ongoing commitment to providing a secure and comfortable environment for the millions of pilgrims who visit the mosque, especially during adverse weather conditions.
To address the potential challenges posed by the rains, the authority has deployed over 1,000 personnel who are working around the clock to monitor conditions and ensure that all safety protocols are being followed. These employees have been equipped with specialized tools and equipment to manage any weather-related issues promptly. Their primary goal is to maintain a smooth and secure experience for Umrah performers, regardless of the weather.
One of the key aspects of the plan involves removing carpets from open prayer areas, a precautionary measure designed to prevent slipping hazards caused by rainwater. In addition, non-slip plastic walkways have been strategically placed throughout high-traffic areas to guide pilgrims safely as they move across the mosque’s vast courtyards. The walkways are part of a broader effort to maintain a high standard of safety, particularly in the most congested zones.
Another crucial element of the plan is ensuring the readiness of critical infrastructure. The General Authority has taken steps to safeguard electricity generators by checking their systems and ensuring that they are functioning properly to avoid any electrical malfunctions during the rains. To further reduce risk, escalators have been temporarily suspended, and power has been isolated from certain equipment to prevent electrical hazards. This careful management of the mosque's essential services demonstrates the authority’s commitment to the safety of both pilgrims and staff.
Specialized teams have also been mobilized to address the effects of rainwater, focusing on draining water from key areas, particularly the mataf – the sacred circumambulation area where pilgrims perform Tawaf. These teams are working diligently to ensure that the mataf remains dry and safe for Umrah performers. They are also engaged in efforts to rehabilitate the area quickly so that it can accommodate the continuous flow of visitors. The primary objective is to guarantee that all movement within the mosque is smooth and that visitors can perform their rituals without disruption or risk.
In addition to these measures, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques is ensuring that various locations within and around the mosque are prepared for any emergency situation. Staff are on high alert, ready to respond to any unforeseen events that may arise as a result of the weather conditions.
This proactive plan highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to offering the highest standard of service and safety to Umrah performers and ensuring that they can complete their spiritual journey with peace of mind. With the onset of the rainy season, these precautionary steps serve as a testament to the meticulous planning and foresight of the authorities in managing one of the world’s busiest and most revered religious sites.