Cairo: Acting Environment Minister Manal Awad announced that Egypt is expediting environmental restoration projects at Lake Qarun to enhance water quality and boost tourism and fisheries. Awad held a meeting with Fayoum Governor Ahmed El-Ansari in the New Administrative Capital to assess the progress of initiatives mandated by a cabinet committee focused on the lake's rehabilitation.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the minister reported 'relative improvement' in the lake's condition due to enhanced controls on industrial and municipal wastewater and measures to reduce pollution levels. Awad emphasized the need for swift completion of wastewater treatment upgrades at the Kom Oshim industrial zone and the expansion of sewer projects aimed at achieving 85% treatment coverage. She also noted collaborative efforts with the Egyptian Minerals and Salts Company (EMISAL) to manage salinity levels and safeguard the lake's ecosystem.

Governor El-Ansari elaborated on the ongoing dredging operations, water-level regulation in partnership with the irrigation ministry, and sanitation projects under the 'Decent Life' initiative. Officials highlighted that decreased pollution levels have facilitated the successful release of sole and shrimp broodstock in recent years, with the return of waterbirds, such as large flamingo flocks, indicating signs of ecological recovery.