TH Personnel Unsung Force Behind Smooth 440Km Haj Pilgrims’ Journey

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, April 27 (Bernama) -- The 440-kilometre journey between Makkah and Madinah is made more seamless for pilgrims through the dedicated efforts of Tabung Haji (TH) officers stationed in Tabuk, who work tirelessly to ensure their comfort and well-being throughout the trip.

The journey, which takes about eight hours from Madinah to Makkah across desert landscapes and rocky terrain, also requires close attention from TH personnel to ensure that all facilities for pilgrims are properly provided.

Along the route, the Al Hijrah Rest and Service Area (R&R) in Wadi Starah serves as the main support centre for the movement of pilgrim buses.

Behind the smooth movement of pilgrims, TH Highway Emergency Call Centre (PPKL) manager Mohd Azir Shahril Ahmad and his team operate as the unsung force, , working tirelessly on site to ensure a seamless journey.

He said his five-member team not only monitors bus movements, but also facilitates coordination between the two holy cities and acts as the main reference in the event of emergencies.

“Our role is to ensure that every bus movement is monitored and any issues can be handled quickly. This stop, located about 200 kilometres from Makkah and 240 kilometres from Madinah, is a critical point in the pilgrims’ movement system,” he told reporters here on Sunday.

On the challenges faced by the team, Mohd Azir Shahril said they were not limited to operational aspects but also included environmental factors such as hot weather, sandstorms and logistics.

“Sometimes it is difficult to track the exact location of a bus during emergencies, especially when many vehicles arrive at the same time.

“Sandstorms can affect visibility and disrupt travel. In such situations, we need to always be prepared and act quickly,” he said.

To ensure readiness, Mohd Azir Shahril said he would arrive at the location early to check the condition of facilities and make necessary arrangements before pilgrims arrive, while ensuring that basic amenities such as toilets, suraus and eateries are in good condition.

Despite working in a remote area with limited facilities, he stressed that the welfare of pilgrims remains the top priority.

-- BERNAMA