COVID-19 Pandemic, The Manager Of Masjidil Haram Makes Some Adjustments

Illustration of Masjidil Haram. (Twitter/@HaramainInfo)

JAKARTA - The General Presidency of Saudi Arabia for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has allocated 25 new lanes in the courtyard of the Mataf, Grand Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia including four for the elderly and people with disabilities.

This increase was made as part of a plan to manage crowds amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorities will also implement all health and precautionary measures to stop the spread of airborne diseases in the new lane of the yard.

Nizar Alaa El-Din, assistant secretary-general of the presidency for grouping and mass management, said the presidency manages congregational groups based on many factors and objectives.

"And, using his long experience to coordinate with other parties, achieve effective communication with all groups working in the Masjidil Haram," he quoted Arab News August 20 as saying.

He added that the presidency has benefited from various studies and mechanisms that have helped establish a smooth and organized entry and exit of the shrine.

El-Din said that by performing Hajj and Umrah every year, Saudi Arabia has achieved global fame for its standards in transporting, protecting, and managing crowds of pilgrims.

The presidency also announced it had allocated 17 entrances to receive worshipers and pilgrims, and more than 100 guards had been employed at designated places.

"The doors are equipped with light signals and guide panels that direct people to empty places inside the mosque," said Fahd Al-Maliki, director of the Gate Department at the Grand Mosque.

Meanwhile, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Prophet's Mosque said it was doubling its fieldwork to provide the best service to visitors to the Prophet's Mosque during the 9th, 10th, and 11th days of Muharram.

These services include providing Zamzam water for worshipers and those who fast at the Prophet's Mosque.