Transportation officials in Yerushalayim are finalizing plans for Pesach as hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected throughout the yomtov week. Buses and the light run will run on a special holiday schedule in many areas and there will be buses exclusively to serve areas that are popular during yomtov, including holy sites and shopping areas. The prime focus of course is on transportation to and from the Old City.

On erev yomtov and during chol hamoed, with a focus on Monday when Birchas Kohanim takes place, certain lines will run more often and the light rail will run with increased frequency.

· The 1 and 3 lines form the Central Bus Station and Ramat Shlomo, Ramot, Har Nof, Givat Shaul and Bayit Vegan. (chol hamoed only)

· The 111 line from Teddy Stadium parking lot (chol hamoed only)

· The 333 line from Shmuel HaNavi to the Kosel. From the Kosel the line will end at Har Chotzvim and from there, one will have to transfer.

· The 160 line to and from the Machpelah and Hebron to Binyanei Ha’uma will run quite frequently.

More visitors are expected in Yerushalayim than last year since chol hamoed is the entire week, permitting more time for those wishing to make the trip. Israel Police adds it is preparing for “hundreds of thousands of visitors” during yomtov.

The Old City will be closed to private vehicles along with closures expected on Derech Chevron and Route 1 towards the Old City. Agron Street towards Mamilla and Chativat Yerushalayim will be closed in both directions.

Visitors are advised to arrive on the express lines, 100, 101 and 102 from the Mitzpei Modi’in and Shapirim park and rides, which are free.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)