Government authorities are all pepped up and are prepared to receive the three million pilgrims expected this Ramadan. The departments of water, sewage, health, traffic and civil defense are almost done with implementing their action plans, according to a report published by Al-Nadwa. Water Supply: In coordination with the Saline Water Conversion Corporation, the General Directorate of Water increased water pumping at the desalination plant in the West Coast area of Al-Shuaibah to meet water needs in areas surrounding the Holy Mosque during Ramadan. Sewage maintenance: Water and sanitary drainage teams will be provided with vehicles and equipment to solve any cases that may arise. They will also monitor if restrooms at the Holy Mosque receive constant supply of water round the clock. Health: Five preliminary care centers will be located at the Holy Mosque. Health Affairs of Makkah has developed an integrated health plan for Ramadan, enhancing health services and increasing manpower at Makkah hospitals, said Dr. Khaled Obaid Zhafar, director general of Health Affairs in Makkah. Traffic Management: New parking lots to be set up at the entrance of Makkah. City buses provided by the Public Transport Company will drive pilgrims to-and-from the Holy Mosque round the clock, said Colonel Ahmad Bin Nashi Al-Otaibi, chief of the Traffic Department in Makkah. Traffic police will also ensure smooth traffic flow and overcome bottlenecks. Civil Defense: Special preparations to ensure safety in crowded areas, tunnels and under bridges are under way. Firefighting and rescue teams are geared with the necessary equipment and manpower to handle emergencies. Makkah Mayoralty: Public places and markets will be monitored for cleanliness and law and order. Up to 7,000 workers will work in high traffic areas. Slaughterhouses, restaurants, cafeterias and shops will be inspected, especially in the areas surrounding the Holy Mosque. Ambulance service: Red Crescent has set up a number of centers near entrances and exits of Makkah, as well as on the roads to Makkah. Mobile teams will be deployed at the mosque for immediate first aid service.
