Egypt's 58 bn new city

You're referring to the ambitious project to build a new city in Egypt, often referred to as the "New Administrative Capital" or "New Capital City". Here's an overview:

Project Details:

• Location: The new city is being built in the desert region of Egypt, about 45 kilometers east of Cairo, the capital city.
• Size: The city is expected to cover an area of approximately 700 square kilometers (270 square miles), making it one of the largest cities in the world.
• Population: The city is designed to accommodate around 5 million people, which is roughly the current population of Cairo.
• Cost: The estimated cost of the project is around $58 billion (EGP 1.1 trillion), making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in the world.
• Timeline: The project is expected to be completed in phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion by 2024.

Features and Infrastructure:

• The city will have a futuristic design, with a focus on sustainability, green spaces, and modern infrastructure.
• It will feature a range of amenities, including:
  • A new parliament building
  • A presidential palace
  • Government ministries
  • Diplomatic missions
  • Residential areas
  • Commercial districts
  • Educational institutions
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Sports facilities
  • Parks and green spaces
• The city will be connected to Cairo and other major cities in Egypt through a network of highways and public transportation systems.

Goals and Benefits:

• The new city is intended to:
  • Relieve congestion in Cairo, which is one of the most populous cities in Africa.
  • Provide a more modern and efficient administrative center for the government.
  • Attract foreign investment and tourism.
  • Improve the quality of life for Egyptians.
  • Showcase Egypt's capabilities in urban planning and infrastructure development.

Challenges and Controversies:

• The project has faced several challenges, including:
  • Land acquisition issues, as many farmers and residents have been displaced to make way for the new city.
  • Environmental concerns, as the city is being built in a sensitive desert ecosystem.
  • Corruption allegations, as some have questioned the transparency of the project's bidding process.
  • Delays and cost overruns, which have pushed back the project's timeline and increased its cost.

Overall, the New Administrative Capital is a massive and ambitious project that aims to transform Egypt's urban landscape and improve the country's economic and social development. While it faces several challenges, it also presents opportunities for growth and modernization.