Israel's Transportation Ministry is considering a groundbreaking solution to manage the massive influx of visitors to the annual Lag B'Omer celebration in Meron: air transportation via Haifa International Airport.
The proposal emerged during a high-level meeting on Sunday, led by Transportation Ministry Director General Moshe Ben-Zaken. The meeting included Deputy Transportation Minister Uri Maklev, representatives from the Israel Police, Home Front Command, and the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage.
This year's celebration, scheduled for Thursday night and Friday, presents unique challenges due to its compressed timeframe. The event typically draws hundreds of thousands of visitors over a 40-hour period, making it Israel's largest annual transportation operation.
The ministry is exploring a multi-modal transportation approach that would combine:
- Flights through the recently upgraded Haifa International Airport
- Enhanced Israel Railways service with special feeder lines
- Shuttle services connecting Haifa to Meron
- Extended public transportation services before and after the event
The potential air travel component could leverage Air Haifa, the city's first commercial airline, which recently began operations from Haifa International Airport following the completion of infrastructure work. The airline, which initially operated from Ben Gurion Airport due to the war, could play a crucial role in this innovative transportation solution.
"This year, everyone will be able to come, God willing," said Deputy Minister Maklev, noting increased interest in visiting Meron following recent events. He emphasized the particular challenge of the celebration falling on a Friday and the planned focus on expanding rail service.
The preparations take on additional significance as they follow a year when the celebration was canceled due to ongoing rocket attacks from Hezbollah, and occur amid current security tensions and a fragile ceasefire in the north.
Transportation Minister Miri Regev has directed officials to prepare for all scenarios, with a particular focus on utilizing rail infrastructure to reduce congestion and ensure efficient, safe travel for all pilgrims.
Ben-Zaken stressed that ministry teams are already fully engaged in preparation, stating, "The Transportation Ministry is responsible for the entire transportation framework of the Rashbi celebration. The professional staff in the ministry works day and night to ensure the event is successful."
YWN contributed to this article.
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