Egypt’s New Administrative Capital: Defending a Controversial project
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The ambitious project to build a new administrative capital for Egypt has sparked considerable debate. While proponents highlight its economic potential and modern infrastructure, critics question its cost and impact. Recently,the project’s president,Engineer khaled Abbas,addressed these concerns head-on.
In a recent interview on the “Hazrat Al-Muwatin” program on the “Al-Hadath al-Youm” channel, Abbas defended the project’s progress and profitability. He stated, “Why are people upset when a country has a prosperous company that makes profits and has returns to the state and achieves added value?”
Abbas further emphasized the transformative nature of the project, arguing that the land previously held little value. “The location of the Administrative Capital had no value in the state and it was desert land from which the state did not benefit,” he explained.”The company and the land are still owned by the state, and the idea succeeded and has returns and added value.”
He urged critics to see the project firsthand. “I hope that anyone who talks about the Administrative Capital, negatively or positively, will visit it first and see the achievement that has been achieved on the ground and the effort and returns that have been achieved,” Abbas added.
The debate surrounding the Administrative Capital mirrors larger discussions about large-scale infrastructure projects and their economic impact, not only in Egypt but globally. Similar projects in other countries have faced similar scrutiny regarding cost-benefit analyses and long-term sustainability.
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New Egypt Capital: Boon or Bust?
An Interview with Dr. Amr Helmy, Urban Growth Expert
WORLD TODAY NEWS: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Helmy. Egypt’s New Administrative Capital project has been a source of much debate. Engineer Khaled Abbas, the project’s president, recently defended it, citing economic potential and the transformation of barren land. What is your viewpoint on these claims?
DR. HELMY: It’s certainly a complex issue.On one hand, there’s there’s no doubt whatsoever the project has created jobs and injected investment into the Egyptian economy. It’s impressive to see the progress made on the ground.
However, we must critically assess the long-term economic viability. While Abbas highlights the profits and added value, we need a thorough cost-benefit analysis. The initial investment costs are enormous. Are these returns sustainable,and will they ultimately outweigh the expenses?
WORLD TODAY NEWS: Abbas also emphasizes that the land previously had little value. Is that a valid argument in your view?
DR. HELMY: It’s true the land was desert before. However, simply turning barren land into built-up space doesn’t automatically translate to prosperity. We need to consider the environmental impact. Water scarcity and resource depletion are already major challenges in Egypt. A project of this scale necessitates careful planning to ensure sustainable resource management.
WORLD TODAY NEWS: Critics argue that funds could be better spent on improving existing infrastructure and social welfare programs. What are your thoughts on this?
DR. HELMY: That’s a crucial point. While a modern capital can be symbolically vital, addressing immediate social needs like healthcare, education, and housing should be a priority.
A more nuanced approach that balances large-scale projects with investments in existing communities might be more beneficial in the long run.
WORLD TODAY NEWS: Abbas urges critics to visit the site firsthand.Do you think this is an important step in fostering understanding?
DR. HELMY: Absolutely. Transparency and open dialog are vital. Seeing the project firsthand can provide valuable insights into its complexities. However, simply viewing the physical infrastructure is not enough. We need in-depth analysis of the economic, social, and environmental impacts to make informed judgments.
WORLD TODAY NEWS:
Thank you for sharing your expertise, Dr. Helmy. This project clearly highlights the intricate challenges and opportunities presented by large-scale development.
DR. HELMY: My pleasure. It’s a conversation that needs to continue as the project evolves.
