Sharqia: Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam emphasized the crucial role of public participation in safeguarding waterways by avoiding the disposal of waste into canals. He highlighted the detrimental impact of such practices on water quality and the efficient flow of irrigation systems.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Sewilam's remarks were made during a surprise inspection in the San El-Hagar district of Sharqia Governorate. The visit aimed to assess the irrigation conditions along the nine-kilometer Fouli Canal, examine operations at the San El-Hagar pumping station, and evaluate measures implemented by the ministry to address local farmers' concerns and ensure consistent delivery of irrigation water to agricultural lands.

During the visit, Sewilam engaged with farmers and water users, addressing their concerns about irrigation conditions. He assured them of the ministry's dedication to resolving any issues and emphasized ongoing monitoring to guarantee timely water delivery. He also stressed the importance of maintaining open communication with farmers and promptly addressing their concerns.

The minister mandated the regular removal of garbage from the canal and called for the development of sustainable solutions to enhance water flow at the bottleneck where the Fouli Canal intersects with the feeder canal from the Saft pumping station. He instructed that the study and maintenance work be completed within a week.

Sewilam ordered the Sharqia General Directorate of Irrigation to deploy an excavator to clear obstacles and waste from the Fouli Canal. He also directed the Mechanical and Electrical Authority, in coordination with the Sharqia irrigation directorate, to provide a workforce to clear aquatic weeds from the San El-Hagar pumping station's intake screens, ensuring its continuous operation and adequate water supply for farmers.

The minister reiterated his commitment to monitoring the situation and responding to water users' complaints. He emphasized that addressing beneficiaries' concerns and ensuring timely water allocations are fundamental rights and core responsibilities of the ministry. Continuous monitoring of water levels, the readiness of pumping stations, and the irrigation network's efficient operation are prioritized to promptly resolve issues and restore normal conditions.