The Saudi Arabian Roads General Authority (RGA) has employed innovative technology to lower surface temperature for pilgrims on the Day of Arafat by up to 20°C as concerns grow over extreme heat conditions during this year’s hajj.
The Ministry of Health (MoH) warned pilgrims about the dangers of exposure to high surface temperature in the holy sites, which could soar to 72°C in some mountainous areas.
In a statement, Abdulaziz Al-Otaibi, spokesman for the RGA, said they had completed the application of a white coating on asphalt surrounding the Namira Mosque using locally manufactured materials designed to absorb less sunlight.
He said, “The white coating, reflecting sunlight, effectively lowers the surface temperature by about 20°C.”
The Namira Mosque, the second largest in the Makkah region after the Grand Mosque, holds significant spiritual importance as it stands on the site where Prophet Muhammad delivered his farewell pilgrimage sermon.
Al-Otaibi emphasised that the initiative, conducted in partnership with various entities dedicated to serving pilgrims, expanded on last year’s successful experiment on pedestrian paths leading to the Jamrat area.
He said thye previous year’s efforts reduced temperature by 12 to 15°C.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health urged pilgrims to take precautions against the heat, advising them to use umbrellas, stay hydrated throughout the day and follow health guidelines to mitigate risks associated with prolonged sun exposure.
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