Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — The Haj Command and Control Center in Makkah is to use sophisticated digital cameras that can read vehicle number plates, confirm if the vehicles have permits or not and monitor people from up to 60 km for the first time during Haj, said the center's commander. Maj. Gen. Abdullah Al-Zahrani said the center has introduced new technology programs this Haj season that aim to upgrade its performance within an integrated system that incorporates concerned authorities working to serve pilgrims. The sophisticated long-distance digital cameras will be tested for night surveillance and in all climatic conditions. In a press conference on Saturday at the center's headquarters, Al-Zahrani said the directives of top public security officials have emphasized the necessity to use new technology to upgrade the center's efficiency in carrying out its tasks during the Haj season.He said linking all police locations in the holy sites with the center was a new initiative introduced this year. Also, the center has been linked with the Ministry of Interior's National Information Center, apart from using other sophisticated technology programs to help personnel working during Haj to serve pilgrims. Al-Zahrani said this year the center selected new locations to set up sophisticated cameras. There are 4,200 cameras in total and this number is increasing due to the developments the holy sites and the Grand Mosque are witnessing.
