Flexible rubber asphalt to be used in pedestrian walkways at the holy sites for this year's Hajj

Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Minister of Transport, Logistics Services, and Roads General Authority, has initiated the usage of flexible rubber asphalt on pedestrian pathways at the holy sites for this year's Hajj (1445 AH). The goal is to raise pilgrims' standard of living and public health. 

According to the Roads General Authority, this scientific advancement was put into practice on the road that runs next to the pedestrian route No. 6 that leads to Mount Arafat in cooperation with a number of organisations. 

By using recycled rubber from tyres in asphalt mixes, the method lessens the amount of tyre trash generated and the pollution caused by burning tyres. Studies have proved that the hardness of typical sidewalks and asphalt surfaces creates discomfort and problems for pilgrims' ankles and feet, especially for the elderly, who make up 53% of all pilgrims. 

Due to the fact that 38% of injuries occur in the foot and ankle region, there has been a rise in demand for medical services during the Hajj season. It is anticipated that using this technology will lessen strain on the feet and ankles, making walking more comfortable and eventually improving the pilgrims' public health and quality of life.