Road-Cooling Technology Enhances Pilgrims’ Experience During Hajj
In a bid to combat scorching temperatures reaching up to 46 degrees Celsius during the summer heat, innovative road-cooling technology is being implemented to create a safer and more comfortable journey for pilgrims embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage.
Abdulaziz Al-Otaibi, spokesman for the Roads General Authority, highlighted the impact of the sun on roads, stating that they can reach temperatures of up to 70 degrees Celsius, leading to the emission of heat and the formation of heat island phenomena.
To address this issue, a cooling material with lower solar radiation absorption properties is being applied to pavements around holy sites to mitigate heat buildup and create a more pleasant environment for pedestrians.
Key Innovations and Developments
The Roads General Authority is expanding the road-cooling project to areas in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, with 25,000 square meters near Namira Mosque in Arafat already benefiting from the application of the cooling material.
The effectiveness of the technology is evident in the significant temperature reduction of asphalt surfaces by 12 to 15 degrees Celsius, enhancing the comfort of pilgrims during their sacred journey.
Saudi Arabia Leads the Way in Infrastructure Enhancement
The collaboration between various organizations, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, the Pilgrim Experience Program, and the Quality of Life Program, has resulted in the development of this groundbreaking substance within the Kingdom’s research center under the Roads General Authority.
By setting a precedent for other countries, Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to improving infrastructure and services for religious visitors underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage.