MAKKAH — The temporary mataf bridge that was installed during Ramadan has alleviated crowds of worshipers and increased the capacity for those wishing to perform tawaf (circumambulation of the Holy Ka'aba), Grand Mosque authorities said. Despite ongoing construction work in the Grand Mosque, worshipers, visitors, and pilgrims are performing their rituals in complete contentment, they said. The contracting company is continuing its work to complete the mataf expansion project on time. The mataf area will increase tawaf capacity to 35,000 worshipers an hour. In addition, a temporary mataf bridge for the handicapped has been constructed, at a height of 13 meters and 12 meters wide. This mataf consists of two levels, one of which is linked to the first level of the Grand Mosque, with two entrances and an emergency exit. The other level will be linked to the ground level of the Grand Mosque after the Haj season. The main temporary mataf bridge, which is constructed next to the Holy Ka'aba, allows worshipers to finish their tawaf in 25 minutes. It is linked to the Grand Mosque's King Abdulaziz and Al-Umrah gates. The bridge can be removed and reconstructed as needed and is 94 meters in diameter. Sources said state-of-the-art technology was used in the construction of the bridge's carbon fiber, which is light and heavy duty. It can easily be removed and reconstructed.
