Roads General Authority has finished coating the asphalt around Namira Mosque to lower temperatures

In order to cool down and reduce heat for pilgrims, the Roads General Authority (RGA) has completed covering the asphalt surrounding Namira Mosque using modern technology. 

White coating has been applied to the asphalt surface around the Namira Mosque at the Holy Sites to provide relief from the intense heat on the Day of Arafat, the culmination of the yearly Hajj pilgrimage. The white covering, which helps lower the surface temperature by around 20 degrees Celsius, was made with locally produced materials that absorb less sunlight.

The idea behind this project is that roadways retain heat during the day when temperatures can occasionally soar to 70 degrees Celsius. The heat is then released via roads at night, creating the "Urban heat island effect," which raises energy costs and pollutes the air.

As one of the government's regulating and supervisory bodies for the Kingdom's road industry, the Roads General Authority is conducting research and hands-on experimentation. These trials promote innovation in a way that is consistent with the sector's strategic strategy.