Faisal, Emir of Makkah Region, has approved a new traffic plan for this year's Haj season that will be implemented on Dhul Hijjah 5, corresponding to Nov. 22. The plan consists of two important points: Providing new, wider roads and checking constantly for those who do not hold genuine Haj permits. “We have constructed a new road linking Al-Awali with the holy site of Arafat aiming to improve the transportation system during this year's Haj,” said Col. Mohammed Al-Bassami, director of traffic control in the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifa. He added, “Saudi and non-Saudi residents are required to use the non-Muslim roads between Jeddah and Taif.” According to Al-Bassami, those who are coming from Al-Hada area in Taif and Jeddah will go through Al-Kar road to avoid congestion on the roads used by pilgrims. Aiming to avoid accidents and large crowds, Prince Khaled, in consultation with the Traffic Management authorities at the holy sites, has, for the time being, decided to suspend preparations for the Makkah high speed train project because of the urgent need for more space for the movement of traffic during Haj. “We started working on the infrastructure for the high speed train project in January, but we have not finished yet. Eventually the train will link Arafat, Muzdalifa, and Mina, with the Jamarat Bridge,” Al-Bassami added, “In order to provide more space for the large number of pilgrims, we have decided to temporarily fill the excavations, repair pavements and provide lighting facilities at the working area.” Checkpoints have been set up to prevent vehicles from entering the holy sites and the authorities have issued procedures to be followed by pilgrims and residents to avoid congestion and accidents. “The new system restricts the entry of vehicles that carry less than 25 passengers,” Al-Bassami explained. “Small vehicles including motorbikes will not be allowed to enter the holy sites without proper entry permits,” he added. Al-Bassami also said that entry was prohibited for those who want to make use of the Haj season to engage in small business activities at the holy sites.
