Al Arabiya goes inside the basement of al-Jamarat Bridge

The basement houses automated collection and sorting machines
for the pebbles used in the stoning ritual

24 October 2012

The basement of al-Jamarat Bridge lies 15 meters underground, and Al Arabiya got the opportunity to see the automated method of gathering, storing and sorting the pebbles used by pilgrims in the stoning ritual that takes place above the three basins.

“This system works according to electric gates. It removes all the pebbles that have been gathered in al-Jamarat’s basin.”

Each of the basins of al-Jamarat has two machine systems that transfer the pebbles from the bottom of the bridge at different speeds. This system has gates that are electronically controlled to m`nage the pebbles course, quantity and destination. It also features sorting censors that filter and isolate everything that is thrown into the pit.

“The quantities of pebbles, when reached 1000 tons, are relocated after the Hajj period and after the pilgrims have departed from Mashaal. These quantities are sent to special locations.”

The remainders at al-Jamarat Bridge reach 300 tones according to official statistics that have been recorded from previous years’ experiences. The electronic system, which works through electronic gates located in each floor of al-Jamarat Bridge, simplified the process of redirecting the pebbles towards compressors at the bottom of the bridge.

Each corner of the facility shows the quick development that occurred from the top to the bottom of the bridge. The basement houses meticulous organization of surveillance cameras and general safety measures. The routes of the bridge’s vehicles also demonstrate the modernization of al-Jamarat Bridge.

video inside: http://english.alarabiya.net/article...24/245709.html