[PHOTO LINK BELOW] Visitors to the Kosel are witness to the scaffolding work, which is reaching the higher areas of the Wall, reportedly to fortify the cement and do whatever necessary to ensure the integrity of the stones and to prevent any tragedy that could result chas v’sholom from stones coming loose.

A study conducted last year called for urgent maintenance to preserve the Kosel, leading to a plan to carry out the necessary work. Architects and rabbonim are overseeing the work, to protect the site, all working under the watchful eye of Kosel Rav Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz.

According to Israel Antiquities Authority project manager Yivgeni Ivnovski, engineers determined the smaller upper stones are in need of strengthening, referring to stones from the Ottoman period. At present they present a threat to mispalalim down below, he explains, adding they are moving from stone to stone, filling in the gaps and replacing worn materials surrounding and holding the stones in place. Ivnovski adds that after conferring with Rav Rabinowitz, the decision was made to only work on those stones which currently pose a safety threat.

Work is done towards evening, beginning at 4pm and continuing until midnight. The explanation was given that this permits the hardening agents to dry better, at night, adding they hope the work will be completed in the coming weeks ahead of Shavuos.

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(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)