Saudi Arabia’s Mecca Municipality has successfully managed the disposal of a massive 68,000 tonnes of waste within just 12 days during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. To ensure the cleanliness of the holy sites, the municipality allocated a team of 13,549 workers, including drivers, supervisors, and cleanliness observers.
Of the total workforce, 7,250 workers were assigned to the holy sites, equipped with 912 pieces of cleaning equipment, with 438 specifically dedicated to the holy sites. Additionally, six mobile cleaning stations and nine waste compactor trucks were deployed to support the general cleaning work during Hajj.
The municipality made extensive preparations well in advance, ensuring the holy sites were properly equipped and maintained for the arrival of the pilgrims. This included maintenance work and organizing the areas used by the pilgrims upon their arrival.
To prioritize the wellbeing of the workers and prevent fatigue and sunstroke, cleaning shifts were divided into morning and evening shifts. This schedule allowed them to avoid working during the scorching noon hours, as this year’s Hajj coincided with the peak of summer.
The municipality also implemented a comprehensive waste management system, including temporary storage systems such as 111 ground storage locations and 1,071 compact boxes distributed across the holy sites according to their operational plan.
The successful waste management efforts by the Mecca Municipality ensured that the holy sites remained clean and maintained throughout the Hajj season. This allowed the pilgrims to focus on their religious observances without worrying about the cleanliness of the surroundings.
The sustainable waste disposal efforts not only contribute to the overall environmental health but also reflect the commitment of the Saudi Arabian government to maintain the sanctity of the holy sites. It is crucial to ensure that the holy sites, visited by millions each year, continue to be revered and respected as places of worship.
Saudi Arabia has been making significant efforts in recent years to improve waste management infrastructure and practices, especially during the Hajj season when millions of pilgrims gather in Mecca. The successful handling of 68,000 tonnes of waste within a short time frame is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of the Mecca Municipality and its workforce.
The effective waste management practices implemented by the municipality not only contribute to the overall cleanliness of the holy sites but also help protect the environment and prevent health hazards. By allocating considerable resources and manpower, Saudi Arabia aims to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience for all visitors.
It is worth acknowledging the tireless efforts of the municipality’s workers who carry out their duties diligently and efficiently, despite challenging circumstances. Their commitment to maintaining the cleanliness and sanctity of the holy sites is essential in upholding the quality and significance of the Hajj pilgrimage.
In conclusion, the Mecca Municipality in Saudi Arabia has successfully managed the disposal of 68,000 tonnes of waste within just 12 days during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. The commitment of 13,549 workers and the implementation of a comprehensive waste management system ensured the cleanliness and sanctity of the holy sites. These efforts reflect the government’s dedication to providing a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience for millions of visitors to Mecca each year.
