Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Suwelim, recently met with North Sinai Governor, Khaled Majawar, to review the progress of water projects in the region. The meeting was attended by key officials, including the General Secretary of the Governorate, Ihab Hassan, and the Head of the Central Administration of the Governor's Office, Wail Radwan. The primary focus of the discussion was on the current status of groundwater wells in North Sinai and potential solutions to regularize their situation.
The meeting aimed to simplify the licensing procedures for groundwater wells in North Sinai, taking into account the region's unique circumstances. An agreement was reached that the governorate, in coordination with the relevant authorities, would provide an official statement listing citizens who are using land that requires well licensing. The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation would then issue a temporary license valid for one year, renewable annually, with a fee ranging from 200 to 1000 Egyptian pounds per well.
The new agreement allows citizens to apply for well licenses within a one-month timeframe after submitting the required documents. North Sinai Governorate will encourage citizens to expedite the licensing process during this period. Additionally, citizens who have not previously paid the required fees will be able to settle their dues and obtain a license. Failure to comply with the regulations may result in taking necessary legal actions.
In an effort to support the local population, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation previously exempted North Sinai citizens from fees for renewing groundwater well licenses between 2013 and 2022. This decision was made in consideration of the region's specific circumstances during that period. The latest agreement aims to further facilitate the process of well legalization and promote sustainable management of groundwater resources in North Sinai.
The governorate and the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation will work together to accelerate the licensing process and address any concerns of local citizens. By regularizing the situation of groundwater wells, the authorities aim to improve the overall management of water resources in North Sinai and provide better services to the local population.
As part of the agreement, the Ministry will also consider applications from citizens who have been using wells without licenses. Those who have already paid the required fees will be exempt from additional charges. The authorities will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to implement the agreement and prevent any potential disputes or issues related to well licensing.
The meeting between Minister Suwelim and Governor Majawar demonstrates the ongoing efforts of the Egyptian government to address the water needs of North Sinai and promote sustainable development in the region. The agreement on well legalization is expected to have a positive impact on the local community and contribute to the region's economic growth and social stability.
Key points
- The Egyptian government has agreed to simplify the licensing process for groundwater wells in North Sinai, with a temporary license fee ranging from 200 to 1000 Egyptian pounds per well.
