The unique mega project undertaken by Rolzur Tunneling and the Chevra Kadisha Kehillas Yerushalayim carries an impressive $77 million price tag, as thousands of kevarim were carved underground, under the existing Har Menuchos in Jerusalem. There are 23,000 kevarim and the facility is in the final stages before opening.

Kevarim are located in the rock walls, several stories high. The project was undertaken in response to the critical shortage of burial space in Yerushalayim, and other cities in Israel. After consulting with poskim, it was decided to move ahead with the project, which mimics kvura from 2000 years ago, during Bayis Sheni, when persons were interred inside caves. After a period of time, the bones of a niftar were reburied inside tunnel walls. This will not be the case today however.

It is pointed out the underground tunnels are air conditioned and are situated up to 160 feet below ground. An app being developed will permit persons to find a kever with ease. The tunnels are well lit and lined with Jerusalem stone, eliminating fears of an eerie feeling as special lighting fixtures were designed by a German company to create a relaxing atmosphere underground.

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Designers explain there is no maintenance, no issues regarding inclement weather including extreme heat or snow, and smart technology has been used to minimize the amount of electricity required to operate the lighting, ventilating and air control systems. Access is also far simpler, as an elevator takes one to the proper floor and then it is a straight walk, no longer having to navigate the old staircases and rocky terrain. This makes the entire complex accessible to one in a wheelchair.

It is pointed out that at the current rate of burial, this new facility will be filled in about a decade and experts continue seeking solutions for kvura in Eretz Yisrael for the coming decades.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)