Hajj should be a symbol of our universal brotherhood and mutual compassion. The Muslim Times has the best collection to overcome sectarian divide among the Muslims
For the first time, high-speed rail available during Hajj pilgrimage
By Marnie Hunter, CNN
(CNN) — High-speed rail service will be available for the first time this year during Hajj, the pilgrimage by Muslims to Saudi Arabia’s holy city of Mecca.
Some of the millions of pilgrims expected to make the journey will be riding Haramain High Speed Rail (HHR), which links Mecca to Medina and passes through three stations: Jeddah, King Abdul Aziz International Airport and King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh, according to the railway’s website.
Aside: Suggested reading by the chief editor of the Muslim Times
Two Hundred Verses about Compassionate Living in the Quran
A Message of Compassion and Love from the Holy Bible
True Fasting: A Message of Compassion and Love from the Old Testament
Abou Ben Adhem, A Compassionate Man
‘Love Hormone,’ How it works in Hospitality?
‘Love Hormone’ Oxytocin May Enhance Feelings Of Spirituality
A New Commentary of the Holy Quran Emphasizing Compassion, Justice and Human Rights Launched
The railway launched in October 2018, after the Hajj, so this year is its first handling the annual crush of pilgrims. In 2018, 2.37 million Muslims made the journey to Mecca.
The pilgrimage, which begins Friday and lasts five days, is one of the five pillars of Islam. Every Muslim is required to perform the Hajj at least once in their lifetime, if they are physically and financially able.
A road trip between the holy cities of Medina and Mecca can take as long as 10 hours during Hajj, according to Arab News. HHR train service between the two cities takes about two hours of travel time.
The trains travel at 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour) on electrified rails. The technology is designed to handle temperatures up to 50°C (122°F), Saudi Arabia’s maximum temperature, according to the HHR website.
There are 35 trains, each with 13 cars and 417 seats in two classes — business and economy.
The high-speed rail line has a capacity of 60 million passengers a year.
Suggested reading
The Muslim Times Finally Has the Recipe to Unite All Muslims
Non-Sectarian Islam: The Proportionate Faith
Hajj and Universal Brotherhood and Sisterhood
We Will be Judged by Our Compassion and Deeds and Not Our Dogma
Categories: Arab World, Asia, hajj, Hajj, Hajj, Saudi Arabia, Sectarianism, The Muslim Times, Universal Brotherhood, Video
