Authorities are considering a plan to erect flexible and moveable fireproof tents in Arafat. A four-member committee consisting of representatives from the ministries of Haj, Municipal and Rural Affairs, Public Security and Civil Defense is currently studying the proposal. The project could start in about two months if official approval is given. The committee said the tents must be designed according to the latest international specifications and should be easily erected, dismantled and preserved. Maj. Gen. Muhammad Abdullah Al-Qarni, Commander of the Civil Defense in Haj, said the Civil Defense had asked for this project two years ago because of safety and land-usage concerns. The Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) will check the quality of the tents under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Haj. Al-Qarni said the use of traditional tents in Arafat has always been a source of great worry for the Civil Defense. The proposed tents will solve this problem because they can be dismantled and preserved easily. __
