As Lag BaOmer approaches, officials in Yerushalayim are finalizing plans for the central hadlakah of Rav Meilech Biderman, which has been relocated from Meron due to security restrictions. In an interview on Kol Chai’s News Anash program, Deputy Mayor Tzachi Brim outlined the logistics, including location, transportation, and safety measures.

Brim, who recently returned from visits to Meron, described the significant shift of the event from the mountain to Yerushalayim. The change comes after limitations imposed this year by security authorities in light of threats from Lebanon.

“Rav Biderman cannot light in Compound 89 as he does every year, and thousands want to feel part of the hilula. So we found an alternative location in Yerushalayim, in the main public thoroughfare,” he said.

He detailed where the event will take place, noting that the hadlakah will stretch from Golda Meir Boulevard through Shefa Chaim, including Rechov HaTorah and Yaakovzon Street. A designated area is also being prepared specifically for women.

Because of the tight timeline for organizing the event, Brim said a decision was made to forgo building traditional parentches (bleachers). “There is no time for negotiations. We want a safe event, without being drawn into uncertain situations,” he explained.

He added that the plan to hold the hadlakah in Yerushalayim had been under discussion for weeks, and that the opportunity has now materialized. “Several cities wanted to host the event, but he chose to do it here. It is a great privilege for Yerushalayim,” Brim said.

Regarding transportation, Brim said talks are ongoing with the Transportation Ministry to increase bus service from Bnei Brak, Beitar Illit, Beit Shemesh, Elad, and other major chareidi population centers.

Addressing the Boyaner hadlakah in Meron, Brim clarified that it is still expected to take place. “The Rebbe will light. We are waiting for the final outline and will act accordingly,” he said, though he cautioned that without organized transportation, attendance in Meron will likely be very limited.

Brim concluded by stating that Yerushalayim is prepared to accommodate the large crowds expected for the event.

{Matzav.com}