Are Egypt’s poor paying the price for Cairo development project?
Hundreds of riverboat owners and crew members have been rendered jobless during a project to regenerate downtown Cairo, but officials say the situation is temporary.
CAIRO — The Egyptian government and Cairo governorate are rejuvenating the area surrounding downtown Cairo, including the Maspero Triangle District. The project includes the development of Nile Corniche Street, which runs along the eastern bank of the Nile River near Tahrir Square. The area is a docking hub for riverboats, known as feluccas, which can be hired out for short leisure cruises.
Many Cairo residents welcome the project, hoping it might help resolve complaints about riverboat workers harassing female passengers. Other citizens have raised concerns about the poor condition of some boats, which are at risk of sinking.
