Egypt Bans Tree Cutting in New Cities

Egypt is taking a stronger stand to protect trees and green spaces in its new cities, after Housing Minister Randa El-Menshawy ordered authorities to stop tree-cutting completely and protect existing trees, parks, and green areas across new urban communities on 9 September. 

The decision also means that green spaces along neighbourhoods and major roads cannot be damaged, reduced, or used for other purposes. Authorities have been instructed to take legal action against anyone who violates these rules.

The government is also asking new-city authorities to plant more trees and expand green areas. Landscaping and irrigation systems are expected to receive regular maintenance to keep these spaces healthy and attractive.

Officials will carry out regular inspections to make sure green areas are being protected. The New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA) will be responsible for monitoring the situation and dealing with violations quickly.

The new measures come after growing public debate over the removal of trees during road and urban development projects. 

One recent case involved removing trees along Gameat Al-Dowal Al-Arabia Street in Mohandessin. Authorities said the trees would be replaced once traffic diversions were completed.

Protecting trees is also linked to Egypt’s wider efforts to make its cities greener. NUCA is taking part in the country’s 100 Million Trees initiative, with a target of planting seven million trees by the end of the 2028/29 financial year. 

So far, NUCA has planted more than 635,000 trees, mainly along major roads and traffic routes.