Al-Hajjar: GPS key to better Haj planning

State-of-the-art technology will be playing a leading role in serving the pilgrims for this season’s Haj, according to Haj Minister Bandar bin Mohammed Al-Hajjar.
He said that introduction of GPS (Global Positioning System) technology during last Haj season has proven successful. GPS uses a space-based satellite navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites.
While addressing a workshop on use of Information Technology in Haj operations on Wednesday, the minister said that Civil Defense, police, presidencies of the Holy Mosques, Saudi Post and National Establishment for Haj have recognized the importance of technology to aid the faithful.
He said that with the use of available technology, the ministry intends to serve Hajis with a more planned approach.
Sahal Bin Abdallah Al-Saban, general supervisor for Transportation and Projects in the Haj Ministry, said that in last year’s Haj, GPS was used at 6,670 locations by the ministry. Based on the GPS system information, 14 zones were classified for Hajis.
He also said that satellite pictures also were obtained to monitor pilgrim movement to facilitate smooth transportation in various holy sites in Makkah.
Abdulaziz Wazzan of Saudi Post showed at the workshop digital maps and address systems using GPS technology. Col. Walid Abu Shanab of Civil Defense Authority in Makkah explained the usage of technology in their operations.
Waleed Mullah, of King Abdulaziz City of Science and Technology, explained the capabilities to assist government agencies to help pilgrims by using technology.
Al-Hajjar said that all government offices not related with Haj ministry are moving from the holy places in Makkah. He said that in order to bring reforms that suit best the interests of pilgrims ministry is initiated series of reforms with private Haj establishments.
He invited government and private sectors to improve the Haj services in best way to serve the pilgrims. He said that the Umrah season has started and is expected to reach its peak in Ramadan. He expected an average of 400,000 visas per month for Umrah pilgrims. Last year, 5.5 million pilgrims from abroad preformed Umrah.
The blueprint and Haj plan for this year will be implemented within three months and involve representatives from more than 70 countries.