Saudi Gazette MAKKAH — About 82 percent of the temporary bridges for tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba has been dismantled, according to Faisal Wafa, chairman of the technical committee for the development projects of the Grand Mosque. He said 58 percent of pathways leading to the temporary mataf has also been removed. Wafa explained that 34 columns, 265 iron rods and 596 ceiling sheets were removed in the process. He said the committee will hold its 25th meeting on Thursday with the representatives of many concerned agencies, including the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques, the ministries of interior and finance, the Saudi Binladin Group and the project's consultant to review the progress of work with a view to providing more space in the Grand Mosque for pilgrims and worshippers. "The condition inside the Grand Mosque has drastically changed from the previous years. Every year there are changes that target an increase in the number of pilgrims while ensuring them with more comfort and safety," he said. Wafa said in its regular meetings with the concerned parties, the committee aimed to achieve the highest degree of coordination with them for the welfare of the pilgrims and worshippers. On his part, Wail Al-Halabi, a committee member, said Thursday's meeting will discuss the space available for use by worshippers especially during the holy month of Ramadan so that the command of the Haj security forces will be able to formulate its operational plans aimed at better serving pilgrims and visitors to the Grand Mosque.
