Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, Eng. Sherif El-Sherbiny, has been closely monitoring the results of campaigns targeting building violations, unauthorized occupations, and disorderly developments in several new cities. The efforts, conducted in collaboration with law enforcement, include operations in the cities of Sadat, 6th of October, Shorouk, Sheikh Zayed, and Badr.
Minister El-Sherbiny emphasized that the heads of these cities are directly responsible for preventing any irregularities or chaotic developments. Strict enforcement is mandated to preserve the aesthetic and orderly nature of the new urban areas. Furthermore, the Minister reinforced the ban on converting residential units or basements into commercial spaces to maintain the cities’ visual integrity.
Actions Taken in Different Cities
- Sadat City: Eng. Yasser Abdel Halim, Head of Sadat City Development Authority, reported that a campaign in cooperation with the Police led to the removal of illegal structures around Al-Salam Mall in the first district. The area surrounding the mall was reorganized to restore its aesthetic appeal.
- 6th of October City: Eng. Mohamed Mostafa, Head of the 6th of October City Development Authority, mentioned a large-scale campaign targeting heavy vehicles violating traffic rules. The campaign successfully seized two transport trucks and a loader that were operating in violation of the city’s operational guidelines, damaging the infrastructure.
- Shorouk City: Eng. Mohamed El-Sayed Abdel Maksoud, Head of Shorouk City Development Authority, stated that an illegal extension on the rooftop of a residential building in the Third District was removed. The offending concrete structure, which exceeded the building’s legal limits, was dismantled, and the owner was held responsible for the removal costs. Additionally, a campaign targeted commercial areas, clearing unauthorized extensions and structures and freeing pedestrian pathways.
- Sheikh Zayed City: Eng. Marwa Hussein Amin, Head of Sheikh Zayed City Development Authority, continued efforts to combat waste-pickers and unauthorized sorting sites across the city. The latest operation resulted in the confiscation of several “tuk-tuks” and vehicles used for illegal waste collection. The materials were seized, and legal measures were taken against the offenders. Evening campaigns also focused on removing illegal commercial activities below residential buildings.
- Badr City: Eng. Mohamed Abdel Aziz, Head of Badr City Development Authority, confirmed a coordinated campaign with the police to remove illegal occupations in the city’s industrial area and in front of workshops in the crafts district. The operation led to the seizure of unauthorized equipment and materials, which were impounded in the city’s storage facilities.
These efforts are part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Housing to maintain order and ensure compliance with regulations across Egypt’s rapidly developing new urban centers.
