JAKARTA - The Shalawat bus transportation service for Indonesian prospective pilgrims in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is confirmed to be ready to operate 24 hours a day to transport pilgrims from hotels to the Grand Mosque and vice versa for free.
Head of the Regional Transportation Section of the Makkah PPIH Saudi Arabia, Syarif Rahman, said the Indonesian government took a policy to provide transportation services for pilgrims regardless of the distance of their stay.
"According to the rules, pilgrims who live at least 2,000 meters away must be given transportation. However, Indonesia provides services for pilgrims without looking at the distance," said Syarif as reported by ANTARA, Monday, April 27.
This year's Hajj season, transportation services are handled by six bus fleet companies spread across five main areas, namely Misfalah, Jarwal, Raudhah, Syisyah, and Aziziyah.
The route to the Grand Mosque is divided into three main terminals. Ajyad Terminal serves the Misfalah area, Jabal Kabah Terminal serves the Jarwal and Aziziyah areas, Syib Amir Terminal serves the Syisyah and Raudhah areas.
To facilitate mobility, each bus is equipped with a route sticker with a certain color code and number. A total of 21 routes have been prepared, and pilgrims are equipped with a route card as a guide since arriving at the hotel.
Syarif explained that the number of fleets at peak times will reach 452 bus units with a maximum operational age of five years. This service operates nonstop with an average waiting time of 15 to 20 minutes.
In line with the tagline of Haji Ramah Lansia, Disabilitas, and Perempuan, the government has also prepared 52 special bus units with a lower deck to facilitate wheelchair users. However, the use of special buses will be adjusted to field demand due to limited capacity.
Syarif added that all Shalawat bus services are free of charge. Jamaah are urged not to give tips to drivers in any form.
"We appeal to pilgrims and families in the country, there is no need to tip. The driver has been paid by the company, and this is part of the official service," said Syarif.
The Shalawat bus service will operate from the arrival of the first batch to Mecca until 6 Zulhijjah, then temporarily stopped before the peak of Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina (Armuzna). The service will resume on 14 Zulhijjah until the last batch returns to the homeland.
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