THE performance of Hajj is one of the most important pillars of Islam, obligatory for every Muslim who has the means.
The gathering of Hajj holds the status of a grand occasion for the people of Hejaz. They are not only grateful to Allah but also feel proud that they have been blessed with such a great privilege.
With the passage of time, improvements and developments have been observed in Hajj arrangements. When we hear about the hardships of Hajj in earlier times, today’s Hajj appears many times easier and more comfortable in comparison. It is a unique gathering in the world where millions of people assemble at the same place and perform specific obligations simultaneously.
Every year, the government of Saudi Arabia makes exemplary arrangements to host the pilgrims. It would be unfair not to appreciate the Saudi leadership for the expansion of the Haram. The current King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have also taken numerous steps, following their predecessors, to make Hajj arrangements exemplary. This year, the Saudi government has further improved arrangements, making Hajj even more convenient.
Through the use of modern technology and improvements in infrastructure, Hajj has been made safer and easier this year. Considering the intense heat, extraordinary measures have been taken in the plains of Arafat for the comfort of pilgrims. The tents in Arafat have been equipped with modern air-conditioning systems to provide a peaceful environment. Artificial rain showers using advanced technology have been installed to maintain a moderate temperature. All pathways across the plains of Arafat have been reconstructed in a modern style. In addition, the Haramain high-speed bullet train and bus tracks for pilgrims have been improved to reduce travel time and increase comfort.
To ensure the safety of pilgrims, security arrangements have been further strengthened. State-of-the-art security cameras have been installed at all holy sites, monitored from control rooms. Modern electric and electronic telephone systems have improved communication between pilgrims and the administration. According to Saudi authorities, all institutions remain active around the clock and Hajj arrangements are nearly complete. The government’s primary objective is to provide pilgrims with a well-organized, safe and memorable Hajj experience.
Every year, millions of Muslims from around the world gather in Makkah to perform Hajj, the largest annual gathering in the world. Managing accommodation, food, cleanliness, discipline and overall comfort for such vast numbers is a remarkable and unmatched achievement. From airport immigration and arrival at Masjid al-Haram to the stay in Arafat and Mina, the ritual of stoning the devil at Jamarat, Tawaf, farewell, provision of Zamzam water and animal sacrifice, excellent management is visible at every stage. Maintaining complete data of millions of pilgrims, along with smooth accommodation, transport and coordination, reflects the extraordinary efforts of the Saudi government. The Muslim Ummah should acknowledge and appreciate these services, as no gathering in the world is as well-organized and efficiently managed as Hajj.
For Pakistani pilgrims, arrangements are specially monitored by Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf Saeed Al-Malki, to ensure that pilgrims from Pakistan face no difficulties. In this regard, he remains in continuous contact with both the Government of Pakistan and the Government of Saudi Arabia and wherever needed, he personally plays a role in facilitating Pakistani pilgrims.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Faisalabad.
