Cairo: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced on Thursday that the Egyptian government is actively monitoring water reserves and implementing strategies to manage the nation's water resources through mid-2026 in anticipation of the upcoming flood season.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Madbouly addressed a press conference following the weekly Cabinet meeting, dismissing claims that the Toshka spillway had been opened "against the government's will." He labeled such reports as inaccurate and highlighted that the state has been vigilantly overseeing water levels since the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was inaugurated. He noted that large water releases from the dam had previously led to flooding in some areas along the Nile, despite repeated warnings from Egypt.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the expansion of the Toshka spillway's capacity was a planned initiative, with construction already in progress and expected to conclude by the end of November. The upgrades are set to enhance the spillway's efficiency, enabling it to accommodate larger volumes of water and bolstering Egypt's preparedness for potential emergencies.
Madbouly highlighted the daily coordination with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation, which ensures a comprehensive assessment of water reserves on a daily and monthly basis. These measures, he stated, are part of the government's efforts to prevent unexpected damage and secure the nation's water resources.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister reiterated Egypt's position on Nile Basin development, expressing Cairo's support for developmental projects in upstream countries provided they do not compromise the interests of downstream nations, particularly Egypt.