RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture is conducting rigorous inspections of slaughterhouses in Makkah to ensure that they meet health regulations during the busy Hajj period. Ministry officials said that comprehensive operational plans are in place, including detailed workforce deployment, slaughter scheduling, and work shift organization. Dedicated teams will also monitor waste disposal and the proper use of equipment and machinery, Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday. The ministry is intensifying supervision of slaughterhouses and livestock pens, and urges adherence to all health regulations to create a safe and hygienic environment for pilgrims and prevent practices that could be hazardous to the environment. Most Hajj pilgrims are required to sacrifice an animal in order to complete their Hajj. Only those pilgrims performing the Hajj Al-Ifrad, which does not involve performing Umrah, do not sacrifice animals. The sacrifice is usually carried out on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah but can be carried out until sunset on the 12th.