Saudi Arabia's environment, water and agriculture system is ready for the Hajj season
Full readiness to serve the guests of God
His Excellency the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, affirmed the complete readiness of the Ministry's system, across all its sectors, to provide the best possible services to pilgrims during this year's Hajj season. This affirmation came after a comprehensive field inspection tour conducted by the Minister in Makkah and the Holy Sites, to review the latest preparations and operational and technical plans aimed at ensuring the comfort and safety of pilgrims and facilitating their performance of the Hajj rituals.
Historical context and importance of the event
The Hajj season is an exceptional global Islamic event, with millions of Muslims from around the world converging on Mecca to perform the fifth pillar of Islam. Throughout history, providing essential services, particularly water and food, in a healthy and safe environment has presented a significant logistical challenge. The government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince, places paramount importance on serving the pilgrims of the Sacred House of God, dedicating all available material, human, and technological resources to ensure the success of this season. The preparations undertaken by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture are a vital component of this comprehensive national effort, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to providing a safe and accessible Hajj experience.
Ensuring water and food security
During his tour, Engineer Al-Fadhli inspected vital water projects, emphasizing the continuity of the water supply with high efficiency. He explained that the National Water Company's operational plan, implemented by more than 2,400 employees, ensures round-the-clock water pumping with a daily average exceeding 760,000 cubic meters, with the potential to reach one million cubic meters on peak days (Arafah Day and Eid al-Adha). He also reviewed the strategic storage facilities in Al-Maghmas, pumping stations, and distribution networks, in addition to emergency plans to ensure immediate response to any challenges. Regarding food security, the General Authority for Food Security confirmed the availability of sufficient stocks of flour and wheat in Makkah and Madinah, with substantial reserve stocks ready for distribution as needed.
Protecting the environment and the health of pilgrims
The system prioritizes environmental health and the safety of pilgrims. The Minister reviewed the efforts of the National Center for Environmental Compliance, which utilizes cutting-edge technologies, including satellites, drones, and mobile laboratories, to monitor air, water, and soil quality in the Holy Sites around the clock. He also reviewed the plans of the National Center for Waste Management (Mawan), which works in coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure the implementation of waste management requirements within pilgrim camps, aiming to improve the efficiency of waste collection, transportation, and safe treatment processes.
Health control and disease prevention
Health monitoring of livestock and plant and animal shipments plays a pivotal role in preventing disease outbreaks. The National Agricultural Services Company highlighted its efforts in inspecting over 1.084 million head of livestock since the start of the season at animal and plant quarantine facilities at major entry points. Meanwhile, the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control (Wiqa’) intensified its field operations with 189 specialized personnel, conducting thousands of exploratory and monitoring tours to combat disease vectors and ensure a safe and healthy environment for pilgrims.
Meteorological and logistical support services
The National Center of Meteorology provides accurate and comprehensive weather services to support the safety of pilgrims. The center has completed its preparations to provide 100% weather coverage for the holy sites and vital entry points through an integrated monitoring system that includes automated stations and advanced weather radars. These services aim to provide real-time weather information and accurate forecasts, enabling relevant authorities to take necessary precautions, especially regarding high temperatures. All these integrated efforts reflect a firm commitment to providing exceptional services befitting the sanctity of the place and the importance of the pilgrimage, ensuring that pilgrims can perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind.
