The Red Crescent's plan in the city for Ramadan 1447: 97 units and 1500 volunteers
The Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Madinah announced its full readiness to welcome the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, through the launch of an exceptional operational plan aimed at providing the highest quality ambulance and medical services to visitors of the Prophet's Mosque and those visiting the city of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). This plan comes as part of the intensive preparations undertaken by all sectors of the state to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims and visitors during the holy month.
Details of the operational plan and automated capabilities
The Director General of the Authority's branch in the region, Dr. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Zahrani, revealed that the plan, which has been implemented and will continue until the 6th of Shawwal, relies on a broad deployment strategy covering all entry points and roads leading to Madinah and the central area. The plan includes the operation of 10 vital operational sectors, supported by a large ambulance fleet of 97 diverse units. This fleet includes 70 advanced ambulances, 15 golf carts designed for flexible movement within crowded areas and the Haram courtyards, and 12 rapid intervention teams equipped with motorcycles and electric vehicles to ensure the fastest possible response to emergencies despite the large crowds. Air ambulance services remain on high alert.
Manpower and volunteer army
The plan is not limited to automated equipment alone, but relies primarily on qualified personnel. The authority explained that this system is managed by 472 specialized medical and administrative staff. Reflecting the spirit of giving and solidarity in Saudi society, an army of 1,500 volunteers participates in implementing the plan. These volunteers have undergone intensive training and qualification programs to enable them to work in the field in the courtyards and arcades of the Grand Mosque and other major mosques, supporting the official ambulance teams.
The importance of preparations in the temporal and spatial context
The month of Ramadan in Medina holds immense spiritual and spatial significance, as millions flock from around the world to visit the Prophet's Mosque and perform prayers. This massive human gathering in a specific geographical area, coinciding with fasting and the performance of religious rites, increases the likelihood of health emergencies or medical situations, making the role of the Red Crescent pivotal and crucial in preserving lives. These efforts align with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 program for serving the guests of God, which places the health and safety of visitors at the forefront of national priorities.
Scenarios for dealing with peak times
The authority has developed detailed and flexible scenarios to address field developments, particularly during peak times when crowds are extremely high. Efforts will be intensified and field deployments significantly increased during Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers, the 27th night of Ramadan, and the night of the Quran's completion. The plan also extends to securing Eid prayers and organizing visits to the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah), ensuring an immediate emergency response according to the highest international standards, befitting the status of the pilgrims and the distinguished services provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Two Holy Mosques.
