As part of ongoing efforts to serve pilgrims performing Hajj, the National Water Company announced a major operational achievement on the first day of Tashreeq, corresponding to the 11th of Dhul-Hijjah, successfully distributing a massive 829,229 cubic meters of water in Makkah and the Holy Sites. This initiative aims to ensure the pilgrims' needs for clean water are met during their rituals, especially given the high population density during these blessed days.
Historical background and importance of the days of Tashreeq
The days of Tashreeq (the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah) are the peak of the Hajj rituals after the Day of Sacrifice, during which pilgrims spend most of their time in Mina performing the stoning of the three pillars. This massive gathering of millions in a specific geographical area presents enormous logistical challenges, foremost among them the provision of potable water. Throughout history, securing water for pilgrims has been a major challenge, from historical projects like the Ain Zubaydah aqueduct to the modern, integrated water system managed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today, which stands as a testament to the technological and engineering advancements dedicated to serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.
High operational efficiency to ensure service continuity
The National Water Company confirmed that its operational and field systems are functioning with complete efficiency and stability, with no significant interruptions recorded in water pumping and distribution operations. This is achieved through a massive water network extending over 5,700 kilometers, supported by a wastewater network exceeding 4,000 kilometers. The company also treated more than 610,000 cubic meters of incoming water at its two wastewater treatment plants in Hada and Arna, reflecting its commitment to environmental standards alongside water provision. This outstanding performance ensures the continuous flow of water around the clock to all the holy sites and facilities of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, contributing to the comfort and safety of pilgrims.
Quality and safety: More than 4,000 laboratory tests
The efforts were not limited to providing sufficient quantities of water, but extended to ensuring its quality and safety. In this context, the company revealed that its technical and laboratory teams conducted 4,283 thorough laboratory tests on the same day. These tests aim to fully confirm that the water conforms to approved standards and to protect pilgrims from any health risks that may arise from water contamination—a crucial preventative measure in large gatherings.
Strategic importance within the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This operational success is part of the integrated strategic plans developed by the Kingdom's government to serve pilgrims, which align with the goals of Vision 2030 aimed at enhancing the quality of services provided to guests of God and facilitating their spiritual journey. The ability to efficiently and effectively manage and distribute these enormous quantities of water not only reflects the strength of the infrastructure but also underscores the Kingdom's leading role on the international stage in crowd management and its provision of a global model for organizing the largest annual religious gatherings, thus reinforcing its position as the heart of the Islamic world.
