The Egyptian government has intensified its efforts to protect state and agricultural lands, with the Ministry of Local Development and Environment announcing the removal of 14,000 cases of encroachment. This move is part of the government's strategy to safeguard the country's resources and prevent illegal construction. The ministry has been working closely with local authorities and security agencies to identify and remove encroachments on state and agricultural lands.
According to the Ministry of Local Development and Environment, a total of 9,415 cases of encroachment were removed during the first phase of the 30th wave of removals, which took place between August 29 and September 18, 2026. These cases included 4,648 instances of encroachment on state lands, 962 cases of agricultural land encroachment, and 3,111 cases of illegal construction. The ministry has also reported that 1,430 cases were targeted for regularization through the submission of applications in accordance with Law No. 168 of 2025.
The ministry's efforts have focused on removing encroachments on state lands, including 3.3 million square meters of land that had been subject to illegal construction. Additionally, 7.1 thousand feddans of agricultural land had been encroached upon, and 281.3 thousand square meters of land within urban areas had been subject to illegal construction. The ministry has also reported that 1656 cases of encroachment on private agricultural lands were removed, totaling approximately 75 feddans.
Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, has emphasized that the protection of state and agricultural lands is a top priority for the ministry. She has stressed that the preservation of these lands is essential for the country's development and for ensuring the rights of future generations. The ministry's efforts are also aimed at promoting sustainable development and regulating urban growth.
The Ministry of Local Development and Environment has reported that a further 4,533 cases of encroachment were removed outside of the targeted cases, reflecting the rapid response of executive agencies and the continued monitoring and follow-up of the situation. The ministry has also emphasized that it will continue to work closely with local authorities and security agencies to prevent new cases of encroachment and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Dr. Saeed Helmy Abdel Khalek, Head of the Planning and Integrated Local Development Sector, has highlighted that the first phase of the 30th wave of removals was closely monitored through the National Platform for Removals, which was established in coordination with the Military Survey Department. The platform allows for real-time monitoring of removals and swift response to new cases of encroachment.
The Egyptian government's efforts to protect state and agricultural lands are ongoing, with the Ministry of Local Development and Environment committed to continuing its work to prevent encroachment and promote sustainable development. The ministry's work is seen as crucial in maintaining the country's resources and ensuring the rights of future generations.
Key points
- The Egyptian government has removed 14,000 cases of encroachment on state and agricultural lands.
- The Ministry of Local Development and Environment has been working closely with local authorities and security agencies to identify and remove encroachments.
- The government's efforts aim to promote sustainable development and regulate urban growth.
