The Mashair Train system has been completed and it will be fully operational this year, Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region and Chairman of the Central Haj Committee, said here after an inspection tour of the holy sites, Saturday. The Mashair Train has been completed from Arafat to Mina. The final linking of the Mashair Train with the Haram and Al-Haramain Train stations will be carried out soon. “The Grand Mosque will be linked after a study of the transport system in Makkah is completed,” he told the media. “It will also be linked with Al-Haramain Train. There is also a study under way to increase passenger capacity in Mina,” he said. The committee reviewed this year's Haj arrangements and looked at suggestions to improve the services provided to pilgrims. Other major achievements include the completion of the dam projects in Muzdalifa, and the work of municipalities in keeping the holy sites and Makkah clean. “It is everybody's wish that the pilgrims are able to complete their rituals with ease and comfort and return home safely,” Prince Khaled said. Work on the development of the Central Area will start next year. It involves comprehensive development of Makkah and linking it with the holy sites as well as developing important transport and housing projects, he said. Referring to the issue of violation of residency (Iqama) rules, Prince Khaled said there were many ongoing studies to suggest measures to curb the menace. Meanwhile, Dr. Habib Zain Al-Abideen, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Supervisor General of the central development projects in the holy sites, told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that two-story restrooms — separate for men and women — are being constructed in the holy sites. Next year more restrooms would be set up using the same system, he said. __
