Jerusalem looks different on the eve of Passover this year. With frequent sirens amid the war with Iran and under Operation “Roaring Lion”, the municipality is completing preparations for the holiday while carrying out a large-scale cleaning operation across the city, alongside efforts to improve public spaces and strengthen the festive atmosphere.
Alongside round-the-clock services for residents since the outbreak of the war, municipal operations teams are working intensively across Jerusalem.
Jerusalem Municipality said: “We are working around the clock for residents and visitors to maintain cleanliness, safety and a festive atmosphere across the city, even during a complex security period”
How is Jerusalem’s pre-Passover cleaning operation carried out?
Sanitation services have been significantly reinforced. Cleaning shifts have been doubled, additional garbage collection vehicles deployed, and waste removal frequency increased, with expanded operations expected throughout the coming days.
Residents are asked to dispose of bulky waste by March 29, 2026.
Around 250 designated chametz burning containers will be placed across neighborhoods between March 30 and April 1. Burning is allowed only in these containers and until 11:30 am. Once completed, the containers will be extinguished and removed ahead of the holiday.
What is being done to maintain a festive atmosphere across Jerusalem?
The municipality is installing Israeli and city flags along major streets and bridges, renewing road markings, bike lanes and crossings, and enhancing lighting at tourism sites and leisure areas. Festive decorations are being installed, and holiday-themed projections will appear on the Chords Bridge, the Old City walls and other central locations.
At the same time, extensive spring planting is underway and parks and gardens are being prepared for large numbers of visitors during the holiday.
Municipal enforcement and policing teams will operate on reinforced shifts to prevent littering and vandalism. In the Old City, water will be distributed to visitors and enforcement will target illegal street vending.
The municipal hotline 106 will continue operating 24/7, while emergency and security teams are coordinating with Israeli police on traffic arrangements and enhanced security throughout the holiday.
