Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development, held a meeting in the presence of Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo; Mona El-Batrawi, Deputy Cairo Governor; and Mohammad Abu Saada, Head of the National Organization for Urban Harmony, with the participation of several relevant departments in the Ministry of Interior, officials of the Ministry of Local Development, and the chief of Heliopolis District.
The meeting is part of Minister Awad's follow-up to the results of her surprise inspection tour of the Heliopolis neighborhood last April. The minister’s tour was a response to citizens' complaints and the observation of several encroachments by unlicensed shops, restaurants, cafes, and workshops. In addition, Minister Awad tasked the Inspection and Control Sector of Cairo Traffic with daily patrols and follow-up campaigns in that area, in coordination with the Heliopolis district.
Moreover, the meeting reviewed several proposals and ideas prepared by Mohammad Abu Saada, the head of the National Organization for Urban Harmony. These proposals aim to regain the visual and urban appeal of various streets in the Heliopolis district, including El-Korba, Baghdad, Ibrahim El-Laqqani, and Ibrahim Pasha streets.
Furthermore, the initiative aims to eliminate any negative or random features resulting from the encroachments of cafes, restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores. It also seeks to restore order to the streets in a manner that ensures the comfort and safety of both residents and visitors. Additionally, the initiative aims to improve traffic flow for all citizens.
For her part, Minister Awad stated that the Local Development Ministry is dedicated to preserving the urban and architectural character of the Heliopolis neighborhood. The ministry aims to restore the area to its former glory and eliminate any distortions that have affected it in recent years. This effort will be coordinated with the National Organization for Urban Harmony and other relevant authorities, contributing to the enhancement of the visual landscape and the restoration of its aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber said Cairo Governorate is committed to improving the quality of life for citizens across the capital, eliminating any manifestations of informality, restoring order in the streets, and addressing any encroachments caused by cafes, cafeterias, and commercial shops.
As the meeting wrapped up, it was agreed to maintain communication and coordination among the ministry, the governorate, and the various relevant parties to evaluate all proposals and ideas. A follow-up meeting will be held next week to review the agreements made.
Source: Media Department, Cairo Governorate
