A week to the commencement of this year’s Hajj exercise, the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has prohibited the entry and use of any form and size of liquefied gas cylinders in pilgrims’ hospitality centres and government facilities within the holy sites of Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah.

The prohibition, announced by the Saudi Civil Defence, is effective from 18 May, and is part of preventive measures aimed at reducing fire incidents during the five-day spiritual exercise.

Saudi newspaper, Saudi Gazette, reported that the Civil Defence stated that any gas cylinders and cooking stoves found in use would not only be confiscated but that legal procedures would also be instituted against violators in collaboration with relevant authorities.

The newspaper further reported that, “The Civil Defence said that preventive supervision teams will intensify monitoring and inspection campaigns to ensure that gas is not used at the holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat, covering all locations and facilities within the holy sites area to preserve the safety and security of pilgrims.”

With the commencement of the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijjah, on Monday, 18 May, this year’s Hajj commences on Monday, 25 May, equivalent to Dhul Hijjah 8, 1447 AH, when pilgrims from across the world will depart Makkah for Mina.

They are expected to move from Mina, also known as Tent City, to Arafat on Tuesday, 26 May. Standing within the precinct of Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal al-Rahmah, is the peak of the Hajj exercise and is mandatory for every pilgrim to be present within the vicinity of the mount.

Hajj, which is the fifth pillar of Islam, is mandatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the spiritual exercise. (Nigerian Tribune)