Report No. 21059-EGT Egypt Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan November 6, 2000 European Union-Taba-Eilat-Aqaba-Macro Area (TEAM) Project Prepared in Partnership with: the European Union and the World Bank Rural Development, Water and Environment Department Middle East and North Africa Region FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY * *** Document of the European Union and the World Bank This document has a restricted distribution and may be used by recipients only in the performance of their official duties. Its contents may not otherwise be disclosed without European Union and World Bank authorization. CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS Currency Unit = Egyptian Pound, abbr. LE US$1 = LE 3.53 LE I = US$0.28 WEIGHTS AND MEASURES m meter m2 square meter km kilometer ha hectare M million km2 square kilometer K thousand m3 cubic meter ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS CAA Competent Administrative Authority CRE Comprehensive Resource Evaluation DANIDA Danish International Development Agency DNP Department of Nature Protection / EEAA EACCC Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council EEAA Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency / EEAA EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMS Environmental Management Sector/ EEAA EMU Environmental Management Unit / SSG EQS Environmental Quality Sector / EEAA EU European Union GAEAP Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan GEF Global Environment Facility GOE Government of Egypt GOPP General Office for Physical Planning / MOHUUC iCZM Integrated Coastal Zone Management MOHUUC Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities MOPWWR Ministry of Public Works and Water Resource MOT Ministry of Tourism MSEA Minister of State for Environmental Affairs NGO Non-Governmental Organization NOSCP National Oil Spill Contingency Plan RBO Regional Branch Office / EEAA RMNP Ras Mohammed National Park SRA Sinai Reconstruction Authority / MOHUUC SS-RBO South Sinai Regional Branch Office of EEAA SSG South Sinai Govemorate TDA Tourism Development Authority / MOT USAID US Agency for International Development Regional Vice-President: Jean-Louis Sarbib Sector Director: Doris Koehn Sector Manager: Salah Darghouth Task Team Leader: Nicole Glineur FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan (GAEAP) is the result of a partnership between the Government of Egypt, the Egyptian Private Sector, the European Union and the World Bank, during the period May 1997 through November 2000. The preparation of the GAEAP preparation was coordinated by H.E. Ambassador Soliman Awaad, Assistant Deputy Foreign Minister for Regional Economic Cooperation in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with H.E. Dr. Mamdouh El Beltagy, Minister of Tourism, and H.E. Ms. Nadia Makram Ebeid, Minister of State for Environment. Instrumental support was provided to the preparation team by Dr. Ibrahim Abdel Gelil, Chief Executive Officer of the Egyptian Enviromnental Affairs Agency (EEAA) and Dr. Mohammed Fawzi and Dr. Esam Elbadry, EEAA Sector Directors for Environmental Management and Nature Protection, respectively; by Eng. Adel Rady and Dr. Magdy Saleh, Head and Technical Adviser of the Tourism Development Agency (TDA), respectively; and by Ms. Heba El Marassi and Mr. Usama Khalil, Counsellor and Second Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, respectively. In the South Sinai governorate, particular attention and instrumental support were afforded by H.E. General Mostfa Afifi, Governor of the South Sinai Governorate and the Mayors of Sharm el Sheihk, Dahab and Nuweiba. Valuable collaboration was extended by the representatives of the private sector operating in the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, in particular Mr. Mohammed Nessim, President of the Egyptian Hotel Association and Mr. Hussein Salem, member of the South Sinai Investors Association. This exercise was led by Mr. Anthony Knott with assistance of Mr. Erhard Loher, Principal Administrators, Technical Unit for Mediterranean, European Commission (EU), Brussels. Full support was provided by the Delegation of the European Commission in Egypt, specially by Ambassador Christian Falkowski, Head of Delegation, and Mr. Stefan Zens, First Secretary. Technical advice was extended to the preparation team by Dr. Michael Pearson, EU Programme Manager, and Dr. John Granger and Dr. Alain Jeudy de Grissac, EU Project Managers. The report was drafted by a team led by Ms. Nicole Glineur, Task Manager, Senior Environmental Specialist in the Middle East and North Africa Region of the World Bank, and a team including Mmes/Messrs. Rasha Abou el Azm, Isabel Braga, Tarek Genena, James Harrington, Sherine Moussa, Bruce Pollock and Jean-Pierre Villaret, consultants. The peer reviewers were Messrs. John Dixon, Unit Chief, ENV and Stephen Lintner, Principal Environmental Specialist, ENV. The GAEAP preparation process benefited from the advice and support of Mr. Richard Westin, Manager, MNCEH, and Mr. Salah Darghouth, Sector Manager, Water and Environment, MNSRE, and his staff, in particular, Mr. Sherif Arif, Regional Environmental Coordinator and Ms. Marjory-Anne Bromhead, Principal Economist, as well as by the staff of the Coastal Zone Management Network. Instrumental support was also afforded by the World Bank Resident Mission in Cairo, in particular by Mr. Khalid Ikram, Country Director, and Mr. Douglas Graham, Principal Operations Officer. Administrative and secretarial assistance was provided by Ms. Syviengxay Creger and Mr. Alexander Totz. This document has a restricted distribution and may be used by recipients only in the performance of their official duties. Its contents may not be otherwise disclosed without World Bank authorization. THE GULF OF AQABA ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN, EGYPT TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No. FOREWORD EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................ (i)-(xii) I. OVERVIEW ............ .1I A. Background .1 B. Land Use and Population .2 C. Dilemma of Development in the Gulf of Aqaba - The Case of Egypt .3 D. The Gulf of Aqaba Coral Reef Ecosystem: A Global Concern.3 E. Additional Biodiversity .5 F. Transboundary Issues .5 G. Objectives of the Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan for Egypt .6 H. Content of the Report .6 II. ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS ...........................6 A. Economic Activity .6 Al. The Tourism Industry .7 A2. Maritime Activities .9 B. Permanent Population .9 C. Land Development .10 D. Environmental Threats .12 E. Impact of Environmental Deterioration on Tourism Revenue .15 F. Native Population .16 III. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ....................................................... 16 A. Legal Framework .16 B. Institutional Responsibilities .20 B1. The Local Administration ............................................................ 20 B2. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) ...................... .................. 22 B3. The Tourism Development Authority ............................................................ 23 B4. Other Public Agencies ............................................................ 24 B5. National Committee for ICZM ............................................................ 25 B6. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) .......................................................... 26 B7. Private Sector ............................................................ 26 IV. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MANAGEMENT ........................... ................. 27 A. The Setting for Managing Environmental Protection in the Gulf of Aqaba .......... ........ 27 B. Land Allocation for Tourism Development ............................................................ 27 B 1. Areas under TDA Jurisdiction ........................... ................................. 27 B2. Areas under Municipal Jurisdiction ............................................................ 28 C. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Process .................................................. 29 Cl. Procedures and Responsibilities ...................... ................................... 29 C2. Evaluation of the EIA Process ................... ...................................... 30 C3. The Case of the Gulf of Aqaba ..................... .................................... 30 C4. Options for Improvement ......................................................... 31 D. Management of the Protected Areas ......................................................... 32 DI. Achievements of the Department of Natural Protectorates (EEAAJDNP) ........... 32 D2. Description of the Core Protected Areas ......................................................... 33 E. Control of Tourist Activities ......................................................... 38 F. Control of Land-based Pollution ......................................................... 39 Fl. Areas under TDA Jurisdiction ......................................................... 39 F2. Areas under Municipal Jurisdiction ......................................................... 40 G. Control of Pollution from Maritime Activities ......................................................... 41 H. Coordination of Environmental Protection ......................................................... 42 I. On-going Donor-supported Projects ......................................................... 42 V. STRATEGY FOR GAEAP ..43 A. Strengths and Weaknesses for Tourism Development on the Egyptian Coast of the Gulf of Aqaba .44 B. Threats, Causes and Remedial Actions .................................. 45 C. Enhancing Institutional Efficiency .................................. 46 D. Key Principles of the Environmental Action Plan .................................. 48 VI. THE GULF OF AQABA ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN ... 52 A. Institutional Strengthening ........................................................ 52 Al. Establishment of the Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council in SSG ........................................................ 52 A2. Establishment of the South Sinai Regional Branch Office in Sharm el Sheikh ........................................................ 54 A3. Strengthening of SSG Environmental Management Unit ..................................... 56 A4. Promotion of Private/Public Sector Partnerships .................................................. 56 B. Enforcing and Strengthening Laws and Regulations ................................. 56 B I. Enforcing ETA Regulations ........................................................ 56 B2. Enhancing Legal Protection of Areas Adjacent to Core Protected Areas ............ 57 C. Marine Pollution Management .......................... .............................. 57 Cl. Establishment of Two Oil Spill Combat Centers in Nuweiba and Sharm el Sheikh ........................................................ 57 C2. Construction of Sanitation Facilities in the Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh Ports ........................................................ 57 C3. Design and Implementation of a Marine Water Quality Monitoring Program ......................................................... 57 D. Flood and Earthquake Protection ........................................................ 59 DI. Flood Protection ........................................................ 59 D2. Earthquakes ........................................................ 59 E. Water and Wastewater Management ........................................................ 59 El. Monitoring of Effluent from Desalination and Wastewater Treatment Plants ........................................................ 60 E2. Taba Municipality ........................................................ 60 E3. Nuweiba Municipality ........................................................ 60 E4. Dahab Municipality ..................................................... 60 E5. Sharm el Sheikh Municipality ................ ...................................... 61 F. Solid Waste Management ..................................................... 61 G. Protected Area Management ...................................................... 62 H. Public Awareness and Environmental Education ..................................................... 64 I. Sustainability of the Environrmental Protection of the Gulf of Aqaba ............. .............. 64 TABLES Table 1: Summary of Actions, Responsibility, Costs and Priority ............................................... (x)-(xii) Table 2.1: Projection of the Number of Hotel Beds ...7 Table 2.2: Projection of the Resident Population .. 10 Table 2.3: Length of Land Use Segments of the Coast Line .. 11 Table 4.1: TDA Standards for Resort Land-use Planning .. 28 Table 5.1: Environmental Threats, Causes and Remedies .. 50-51 ANNEXES Annex I Laws and Regulations ..................................................... 65 Annex 2 The National Committee for ICZM ..................................................... 87 Annex 3 Hotel Capacity and Population Projections ..................................................... 91 Annex 4 Impact of Recreational Activities on Coral Reef ..................................................... 93 Annex 5 Water Quality Monitoring Program ..................................................... 97 Annex 6 Revenue from Tourism ..................................................... 99 Annex 7 Situation and Perspectives for Infrastructure Development on the Egyptian Coast of Aqaba Gulf ...................................................... 101 Annex 8 List of Donor-supported Project Related to Environmental Protection ............ ............. 127 Annex 9 References ..................................................... 129 GRAPHS / CHARTS Graph 1: Long -Term Development Objectives for the National ICZM Plan ................ ............... 88 Graph 2: ICZM Institutional Arrangement ..................................................... 89 Chart 1 Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency ..................... ................................ 131 Chart 2 Tourism Development Authority ..................................................... 132 Chart 3 South Sinai Governorate ..................................................... 133 Chart 4 The Institutional Setting' ....................................................... 134 Chart 5 EIA Process ..................................................... 135 Chart 6 Vision for Sustainable Development ...................................................... 136 Chart 7 Gulf of Aqaba - Shipping Activity ..................................................... 137 Chart 8 Coordination Mechanism ..................................................... 138 Chart 9 Institutional Setup for EIA Process ..................................................... 139 Chart 10 South Sinai Conservation Sector ...................................................... 140 Chart 11 EU-Program for South Sinai Environmental Protection ................................................. 141 MAPS Map 1: Gulf of Aqaba - Infrastructure and Parks - IBRD 29243 Map 2: Gulf of Aqaba - Land Use - IBRD 29244 FOREWORD The Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan (GAEAP) represents for Egypt a step towards achieving the national environmental objectives that were outlined in the 1992 "Egypt Environmental Action Plan " and in the "National Planfor Sinai ". While some of the actions proposed are curative, the focus of the plan is on preventive measures to protect the Gulfs land and water interface. These measures will avert irreversible damage to the environment in the Gulf of Aqaba and ensure conservation of natural resources within a framework in which tourism development can take place. The Egyptian GAEAP is a component of the Taba-Eilat-Aqaba Macro Area (TEAM) project which is sponsored by the European Union (EU) within the framework of the Regional Economic Development and Environment Multilateral Working Groups (REDWG) of the Middle East Peace Process. The preparation of the GAEAP is funded by a European Union grant of US$200,000 and a World Bank grant of US$100,000. The Egyptian GAEAP is the result of a cooperative vision developed over the 1997-1998 period between the Government of Egypt (GOE), the Egyptian private sector, the European Union and the World Bank. Egyptian participation was coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Other ministries, which participated in the preparation of the plan, include the Ministries of Tourism; State for Environmental Affairs; Public Works and Water Resources; and Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities. The Governor and Mayors of the South Sinai Governorate played an instrumental role in the preparation of the GAEAP. Links With National and Regional Initiatives In addressing existing threats and preventing further damage to the environment of the Gulf of Aqaba, the GAEAP will support priorities outlined in the 1992 "Egypt Environmental Action Plan " and Agenda 21, and will contribute to operationalizing the Jeddah Convention-, while also providing a framework within which future economic developments can take place in harmony with the environment. The GAEAP will provide integrated management of environmental issues affecting the Egyptian coastal area of the Gulf of Aqaba. The proposed plan will directly benefit other GOE projects co-financed by donors, for example: the South Sinai Protected Area Sector (EU); the Oil Spills Contingency Plan (EU9; and the Egypt Private Sector Tourism Sector Infrastructure and Environmental Management Project (World Bank). The success of these projects will, to a great extent, depend on the availability of clean water and beaches and healthy coral reef ecosystems. The GAEAP will, consequently, complement existing efforts to balance environmental protection and conservation with development, based on the natural resources of the Red Sea. The proposed plan will also complement three existing Global Environment Facility (GEF) projects and will provide an essential link leading toward achieving the larger goals of resource management and protection of vital ecosystems throughout the entire Red Sea region. Two ongoing GEF The GAEAP would fulfill the requirement of the Convention for the Conservation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Environment (the "Jeddah Convention") signed by the members of the Arab States in 1982 which calls for the establishment and coordination of regional efforts to control pollution. FOREWORD (continued) projects concerned with environmental management in the Red Sea are: (a) The Egypt Red Sea Coastal Zone Management project, which focuses primarily on preserving biodiversity while promoting environmentally sustainable tourism, and (b) the Yemen Marine Ecosystem Protection project, which is concerned with environmental monitoring and mitigation of oil-based pollution activities. The third GEF project concerned is the recently approved Strategic Action Program for the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which supports the establishment of a regional framework for the protection of the environment and the sustainable development of the coastal and marine resources. In addition, a number of existing initiatives are designed to facilitate communication between the riparian nations at a policy level. These include: the Red Sea Regional Framework (funded by the GEF as a cooperative extension of the above mentioned Egypt and Yemen GEF projects); UNEP's ongoing Regional Seas Program; and the Program on the Environment of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (PERSGA). Furthermore, the Policy Framework for Developing an Environmentally Sustainable Tourism Strategy for the Egyptian Red Sea Coast (USAID) complements the GAEAP. Regional Importance All the riparian governments recognize that effective environmental management and pollution control programs are needed to protect the Gulf of Aqaba's natural resources, especially its valuable and vulnerable coral ecosystems, while allowing for development of the region's trade, industry and tourism. The governments also share apprehension over recurrent accidental spills of oils and chemicals into the marine environment, and their current inability to cope with an oil spill disaster of significant scale. Steadily increasing pollution from land sources is also a matter of major concern, as are the economic, ecological and public health impacts of changes which are already underway along the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. While riparian governments recognize that environmental problems are not contained by national boundaries and strong, immediate regional environmental protection mechanisms are urgently required, they also appreciate that regional cooperation must be a cautious well-timed catalytic process which could be effected by a phased approach, with each stage demonstrating clear evidence of success and the opportunity for replication in other riparian states. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CONTEXT 1. The Gulf of Aqaba is a marine environment enclosed by arid lands that experience extremes of temperature and exceedingly low levels of precipitation. These conditions have led to the evolution of unique, and hence internationally important, coral reef and marine ecosystems which are particularly susceptible to damage from pollution or other forms of environmental impact. The Gulf of Aqaba also represents a natural resource of major economic significance to the four riparian countries (Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia) in terms of access to sea transportation and the development of tourism and other industries along its shores. 2. The Governorate of South Sinai has overall responsibility for all activities within the Gulf of Aqaba. As illustrated in Map 2, land use on the Egyptian coast of the South Sinai Governorate can be categorized by jurisdictional boundaries of the three government agencies involved in the area: (a) the Local Government with authority over the urbanized areas; (b) the Department of Nature Protection of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) which supervises protected areas; and (c) the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) which has jurisdiction in four tourist development sectors: Taba, Dahab, Nuweiba, and Sharm El Sheikh. Therefore, out of the 260 km of Gulf coastline, a total of 98 km has been declared, and managed as, protected areas of international importance; another 108 km has been allocated to tourism development; and the remaining 54 km encompasses the municipalities of Dahab, Nuweiba, and Sharm El Sheikh and Taba village. 3. Of particular note and importance, is the success of the Government of Egypt (GOE) in protecting 38 percent of the Gulf of Aqaba coast through the establishment and management of three core protected areas (Ras Mohammed National Park and Abu Galum and Nabq Managed Resource Protected Areas) and 260 km of coral reefs of global importance. The level of protection attained is the result of ten years of sustained effort with the assistance of the European Union. These achievements are not only of national and regional significance; they are impressive on an international scale. Furthermore, GOE is generating revenues from these protected areas which exceed recurrent costs. 4. The 260-km coastline is particularly vital to the national tourism economy. Sharm El Sheikh, with an average hotel occupancy rate of 70 percent, is estimated to generate annual revenues of US$150 million (1996) from the tourism industry or 4.5 percent of national revenues. Annual revenues for the Aqaba coast are estimated at US$210 million or 6 percent of national revenues-. In 1996, the South Sinai coastal region generated about 3.8 million of tourist nights or 16 percent of the national annual number of hotel nights. The establishment of curative and preventive measures to protect and conserve the Gulf's natural resources, as well as to provide clean bathing and drinking water, is an issue of critical importance for Egypt and to all of the riparian states. Without the establishment of a preventive framework, the environment of the Gulf of Aqaba is exposed to the threat of irreversible damage, which is likely to be exacerbated as borders in the region open up. 5. Tourism development in the Egyptian portion of the Gulf of Aqaba has been a recent and rapid phenomenon. During the last decade, the coastline in and around Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, and l' These numbers are based on conservative estimates detailed in Chapter II. Official figures are much higher. (ii) Taba has been transformed from its natural state by tourism developments. These developments consist mainly of large hotels and associated services and infrastructure (e.g., roads, power, telecommunication, desalination plants, sewerage and treatment plants). In addition, there has been a substantial increase in use of the coastline and reef areas by a growing number of local and international tourists. Economic development has also resulted in an estimated eight-fold increase in the resident2'population of the city of Sharm El Sheik during this period. 6. As a result of tourism development, the resident population of the Egyptian coastal zone has increased from 10,000 to 40,000 over the twenty-year period 1977-1997. Resident population is expected to reach 110,000 in 2002 and 170,000 by 2017. The number of hotel beds increased from 1,200 in 1992 to 15,000 in 1997 and is expected to reach 60,000 in 2002 and over 90,000 in 2017. Other government projections suggest a long-term target as high as 200,000 beds. The number of visitors increased from a few thousand to about 500,000 in 1996 (of which two third are international tourists), or about 18 percent of the tourists visiting Egypt. Visitation is expected to reach over 3 million by 2017. In addition, four marinas are being envisaged in the Gulf of Aqaba. Two international airports (Dahab and Nuweiba) are also envisaged. 7. These developments have already had an impact on the environment of the Gulf of Aqaba and the integrity of the coastline, coral reef and adjacent desert ecosystems that constitute a resource on which the tourism industry is based. The challenge of the proposed Egyptian Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan will be to support the sustainable development of the tourism industry while protecting the marine and terrestrial ecosystems. 8. Adverse environmental conditions in the region are not yet of major significance. However, continued heavy tourist visitation and expansion of tourism to the undeveloped areas pose the potential for serious and irreversible environmental damage. The coral reef and desert ecosystems which comprise a major attraction for tourism are highly sensitive to anthropogenic impacts. The existence of sustained intensive tourism activity in the region is inherently incompatible with resources conservation. In the absence of a prompt and comprehensive response to this situation, the sustainability of the nature-based tourism will be undermined and future generations will be left with a permanently degraded natural environment. 9. With a prompt response, it is possible to address the problems before the areas suffers irreversible damage, as the extent of degradation is relatively minor. There is general understanding and agreement among the stakeholders, both public and private, as to the importance of protecting the resource. The central government has already adopted a number of laws, regulations and conservation programs which, if implemented locally, can address the problems. Furthermore, donors are already associated with environmental protection programs in the Gulf of Aqaba. Critical Issues 10. There are three critical issues which are essentially institutional in character, reflecting an imbalance in the capability of government at all levels to respond to the accelerated pace of private sector activities. 11. Within the municipal jurisdictions, the expansion of tourism has induced growth in commercial activities, concurrently with population growth and an increased demand for expanded infrastructure and other public services, e.g., water, wastewater, solid waste, housing, fire, police, medical and emergency -21 Resident population includes registered residents as well as all categories of tourism personnel; it excludes construction workers and tourists. (iii) services, etc. The local municipal governments lack the capacity to respond to, and to accommodate, this growth in an adequate and timely manner. In the case of Sharm El Sheikh, this imbalance has resulted in devolution of some municipal-type services (water and wastewater treatment) to private investors without appropriate monitoring from the government. 12. The central government has made major progress in the enactment of environmental laws and in adopting regulations for administering these laws. Under Law 4/1994, EEAA has issued guidelines for environmental impact assessment, has formed the national steering committee for coastal zone management which in turn has issued environmental guideline for development in coastal areas, and is currently developing an environmentally-sustainable tourism strategy for the Red Sea Coast. Under Law 102/1983, the government has established a number of protected areas and has provided staff and regulatory oversight of Ras Mohammed National Park. TDA has established a requirement for environmental assessment of new tourist facility construction. 13. Despite this progress, these laws and regulations are not currently being properly implemented in the Gulf of Aqaba zone, in particular with regard to the EIA process. At the central, Governorate and municipal levels, government agency performance needs higher budget allocation and improvement in monitoring, inspection, and enforcement capacity. Intra- and inter-agency communication and coordination must be improved. Failure to address these issues would adversely impact the protection of the ecosystems and consequently the sustainability of the tourism industry based on their visitation. 14. Considerable research and information is needed on which to base a long-term program for the coral reef and desert ecosystems. There is little baseline data on the ecosystems in the region and a lack of information on the sensitivity of these systems to human activity and the recovery processes associated with them. Objective 15. The Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan for Egypt (GAEAP) will focus on prevention of further environmental degradation of coastal areas, coral reefs and marine ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic development. Such a plan will be introduced and implemented in line with the framework of the National ICZM Plan. Close linkages between the public and private sector are essential. Failure to protect the coastal environment would negatively affect tourism revenues. Decline in tourism revenues would result in reduced financial allocation to environmental protection. Furthermore, private sector investment boosts tax revenues, reduces government expenditures (e.g., for water and sanitation) and creates employment. The challenge in the Gulf of Aqaba is to attract high revenues while respecting the capacity of the ecosystems. 16. The proposed plan will provide the basis for the application of a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for managing the environmental protection of the Egyptian coastal zone and will address all related issues associated with land and water pollution, and degradation of the ecosystems. The action plan will develop monitoring and prevention systems and lead to the preparation of integrated investment programs based on balancing economic development with environmental protection. EXISTING AND POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS 17. Aqaba's environmental problems are primarily induced by tourism and associated activities as well as maritime traffic, which result in marine, aquifer, soil and noise pollution, and destruction of coral reef and desert ecosystems. In addition, environmental issues which are related to the management of wastewater and solid waste are exacerbated by the increasing resident population of the coastal cities and the numbers of tourists visiting the area. (iv) Tourist Activities 18. An estimated 500,000 tourists visited the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone in 1996 and more than 3 million are expected in 2017. The relatively rapid growth of tourist visitation since the late 1980s has spurred interest in further development of tourism as an additional source of foreign income. The Aqaba coast currently offers a total of 14,000 hotel beds. The Ministry of Tourism intends to encourage an increase in the number of hotel beds on the coast to 60,000 by the beginning of the next decade. Tourism Development Authority (TDA) plans for further development of tourism in Aqaba indicate the intention to have in place more than 90,000 hotel beds by 2017. Environmental concerns relate to the impact that these developments and the increase in numbers of tourists will have on the resources that tourists visit the Aqaba coast to enjoy. Of particular concern are their effects on the fragile coral reef and the adjacent desert ecosystem. The need for additional water desalination plants and wastewater treatment facilities which will be necessitated by the anticipated increase in tourism developments in the area, is also of concern. Ship-originated Pollution 19. Between 1985 and 1991, an annual average of 1,600 vessels handling 13 to 20 million tons of cargo each year, including oil, minerals and chemicals, entered the Gulf of Aqaba through the strait of Tiran. The level of shipping activity is likely to increase steadily over the next few years. The lack of a local capacity to contain and control any significant accidental spills of oil is a major concern. Other environmental issues relate to marine pollution resulting from frequent small spills of oil and other contaminants. In addition, waters are polluted by garbage and animal carcasses thrown over board by ferries and ships. Furthermore, reefs are destroyed by ships that accidentally miss the navigational waterway through the strait of Tiran. Wastewater Management 20. All urban areas are connected to biological oxidation sewerage treatment systems. However, the population of Dahab and Nuweiba are not fully serviced due to insufficient infrastructure or lack of maintenance. This problem may affect up to 60 percent of the resident population. The remainder is poorly treated before being released into the desert. Environmental concerns relate to possible health impacts of seepage from septic systems, pollution of marine water and degradation of the coral formations. There is an urgent need to progressively move towards establishment of an environmentally adequate wastewater treatment system throughout the coastal zone. Solid Waste Management 21. The cities, the port of Nuweiba and the tourism resorts currently generate about 50 tons of garbage per day. This is expected to increase to 120 tons per day by 2002 and to 220 in 2017. The municipal dumps are located at unfenced and open desert areas near the coastal desert road. Environmental concerns relate to the effectiveness of both the collection and disposal systems, which have resulted in the presence of unsightly refuse in urban and tourist development areas and throughout the desert adjacent to the town dump where open burning of rubbish also results in air pollution. LEGISLATION AND REGULATIONS 22. Current legislation includes all the elements necessary to ensure comprehensive environmental protection (e.g., control of pollution, tourism facilities construction, wastewater discharges, fishing and port activities, protection of land and marine resources). However, environmental regulations, in particular, those pertaining to environmental impact assessment, are seldom enforced. Provision for their enforcement is necessary to ensure adequate protection of the Gulf of Aqaba land-water interface. (v) INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT 23. The Govemorate of South Sinai was established to carry out the general administration and ensure coordination and integration of developments taking place in the South Sinai region. The South Sinai Governorate (SSG) has recently established an environmental management unit (EMU). However, neither SSG has formal mechanisms nor trained staff specifically assigned to handle environmental matters and therefore cannot properly fulfill its environmental functions. 24. Line ministries and government agencies, the private sector and two non-governmental organizations all play significant roles in the management of the Aqaba coast environment and natural resources. There is a need for consolidation and coordination of responsibilities among these players to avoid fragmentation or duplication of operational tasks and ensure that all environmental issues receive adequate attention. 25. As most developments along the coast will occur during the coming decade, sound implementation, including monitoring of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process will be crucial to conserve the ecological resources and maintain the quality of tourism which visit the Aqaba coast, while increasing revenues. As of today, the EIA process of tourism projects, such as hotel and marinas construction, municipal projects as well as water desalination and wastewater treatment, have not been adequately addressed. An undetermined number of projects have been implemented without any consideration to their environmental implication, including large infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a power cable between Aqaba and Taba31. Such lack in addressing major environmental issues threatens the credibility of the government concerning environmental matters, hence weakens the capacity to attract quality tourism. Rectifying the deficiency of the institutional system responsible for environmental protection will be a major objective for GAEAP. STRATEGY FOR GAEAP Strengths and Weaknesses for Tourism Development 26. On the one hand, the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba offers the potential and opportunities for international tourism development due to the beauty and diversity of the natural setting, attraction of a large European tourism market, modern transport infrastructure, absence of competing economic activity and availability of a comprehensive legal and institutional framework protecting the ecosystems on which the tourism industry is founded. On the other hand, there are serious limitations to the sustainability of the tourism development resulting from the fragility of the ecosystems, high costs of economic development, risks of conflicts with four riparian countries at short distance of the Egyptian coast, priority given to immediate profits by the investors, inability of the municipalities to provide required urban services, lack of capacity of the government institutions to implement environmental legislation and, finally, potential for severe and irreversible environmental damage if such deficiencies are not addressed. Threats, Causes and Remedies 27. From the environmental standpoint, there are three major threats: (a) the land-based pollution, resulting from the rapid growth of visitation, poor municipality performance and insufficient pollution control, which affects marine waters containing the coral reef, the shoreline and coastal land; (b) the tourist activities, impacting the ecosystems of unprotected areas with unregulated activities such as diving, snorkeling, boating and safari; and (c) the water and shoreline pollution from oil and chemical 3j Whereas environmental aspects were integrated on the Jordanian side. (vi) shipping and ferTy traffic. The GAEAP will address these threats through a combination of institutional strengthening, technical assistance and investments. Enhancing Institutional Efficiency 28. The above threats are exacerbated by Government inability to cope with the requirements or the consequences of the rapid development of tourism activities, due to fragmentation of the concerned institutions, absence of local responsibility, excessive centralization of responsibilities, EEAA and SSG inability to implement and enforce the environmental legislation, inadequate resource allocation to the municipalities and insufficient voice left to the private stakeholders for environmental protection. 29. To address these issues, GAEAP strategy will be to enhance SSG coordination role, private sector involvement and SSG and EEAA capability, and to decentralize the EJA process. This strategy will be supported by institutional strengthening described in par. 35. THE GULF OF AQABA ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN (GAEAP) 30. The intensive development of tourism in the Gulf of Aqaba presents both an opportunity and a dilemma. As experienced in Hurghada, intensive tourism, if left unmanaged, can inflict irreversible damage on coral reef and desert ecosystems and curtail the area's economic potential. There are already warning signals of unsustainable recreational pressure at a number of sites on the Aqaba coast. Together with current projections for a rapid expansion of the tourism base in the Aqaba coast, degradation from mounting recreational activities give rise to serious concerns about the sustainability of tourism development in the region. 31. The challenge is to plan for economic development within a sound environmental framework. The implementation of the GAEAP would allow for protection of marine resources, including coral reefs and fisheries and conservation of the aesthetic attributes of the Gulf environment and waters upon which the tourist industry depends. Disregard of environmental issues could jeopardize anticipated progress for the growth of the tourism industry. Cautious planning, respecting the capacitye' of the ecosystems to cope with anthropogenic pressure from tourist activities, is essential in order to conserve the character and long term development potential of the Aqaba coast. Funding already committed by the EU and USAID for the on-going or planned activities of the GAEAP respectively amounts to $23.5 million5' for protected areas and oil spill response centers and $20 million for water supply and wastewater management in Nuweiba. Additional funding needed to protect the environment through the implementation of GAEAP crucial activities is estimated at US$98.7 million. 32. The action program proposes a number of actions in nine categories of activity6', i.e.,: (a) institutional strengthening; (b) enforcement of legal and regulatory framework through decentralization at the SSG level; (c) management of marine pollution; (d) flood and earthquake protection; (e) water and wastewater management; (f) and solid waste management; (g) protected area management; (h) public awareness and environmental education; and (i) assurance of sustainability of environmental protection in the Gulf of Aqaba. Actions classified "priority 1" (estimated cost is US$96.3 million) should be undertaken promptly. "Priority 2" actions (estimated cost is US$2.4 million) should be accomplished within a medium-term timeframe. The highest priority actions are decentralizing ' Research undertaken in Eilat concludes that reefs can support 5,000 dives per site per year. Diving intensity beyond that level is associated with irreversible damage. : In addition, EU has allocated $6.5 million for the implementation of St. Katherine's protected area. 6 Some of the activities are ongoing or about to be implemented. (vii) the institutions to have a presence on the ground, and enforcing the legal and regulatory framework for implementation of curative and preventive environmental measures. Initiatives proposed under the Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan are listed below, summarized in Table I and detailed in Chapter VI. Legal Framework Enforcement 33. The implementation of the legislative and regulatory framework for the Aqaba region will involve: (a) enforcing regulations pertaining to zoning and siting of all tourism as well as related infrastructure developments; and (b) systematically and adequately implementing the environmental impact assessment review and permit procedure. Projects approved or implemented outside the regular EIA process will be reviewed and measures will be proposed to reverse any potential environmental damage. 34. Where possible, focus should be on cost recovery through introduction of, for example, the "polluter-pays" principle, appropriately weighted tariffs and taxes for tourist activities, water use, garbage and sewage collection, etc. Private sector adherence to, and support of environmental protection regulations should be encouraged. This component will be implemented by the Environmental Management Unit of the South-Sinai Governorate. The estimated cost of the legal framework enforcement component of the GAEAP is US$1 million. Institutional Strengthening and Human Resources Development 35. A major strengthening of the institutional system is required to achieve the GAEAP objective to ensure sustainability of the tourism development while protecting the natural resources of the Gulf of Aqaba coast. Capacity building would include the establishment of the Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council in the South Sinai Governorate (EACCC). The Council would support the Governor on all environmental related matters pertaining to the Aqaba coast, including land use planning, tourist activity regulations and infrastructure planning. 36. The South Sinai Regional Branch Office (SS-RBO) will also be established in Sharm El Sheikh as one of the nine regional branches of EEAA. The regional structure and functions of the branch reflect that of EEAA. One of its primary responsibilities would be to adequately implement the EIA review functions related to EEAA. It will be equipped with both administrative and enforcement capabilities, and staffed with specialists with technical competence in EIA processing. In addition, SS-RBO would serve as an advisory arm of the EACCC on coastal zone management. The unit would also consolidate and coordinate the activities of other agencies involved with environmental issues, set general environmental objectives and requirements, enforce environmental regulations and implement the action plan while ensuring public participation. 37. At the same time, the Environmental Management Unit (EMU) of the Governorate would be strengthened and will work closely with SS-RBO (Chapter VI). Furthermore, the promotion of private/public sectors partnership to develop and operate water supply, wastewater treatment and solid waste management system respecting environmental standards and guidelines as well as to protect the coral reefs, beaches and adjacent desert areas is an essential element of the GAEAP. 38. To improve the existing and proposed coordination processes, a Comprehensive Resource Evaluation (CRE) will be carried out by SS-RBO for the entire coastal zone to include current and projected economic, social and environmental issues. The resulting set of integrated data and plans will be the major instrument supporting EACCC, SS-RBO and EMU activities. Estimated cost of the institutional strengthening and human resources development component of the GAEAP is US$6.5 million, including CRE. (viii) Environmental Initiatives 39. Six categories of initiative have been identified for investment or technical assistance. These are: marine pollution management; flood and earthquake protection; water and wastewater management; solid waste management; protected area management; and public awareness and environmental education. (a) Marine Pollution will coinsist of establishing the Ras Mohammed and Nuweiba oil spills emergency centers; constructing sanitation facilities in Nuweiba and other ports; and designing and implementing a marine water quality monitoring program to assess and establish measures to maintain water quality. The monitoring program will provide baseline data and updated indices of ambient conditions including quantity, distribution, fluctuation and movement of natural components of the marine water body as well as the occurrence and levels of pollutants. Estimated cost of this component is US$8.7 million, of which US$8 million is funded by the EU for the establishment of the oil spill combat centers. (b) Flood and Earthquake Protection includes designing and implementing a flood protection plan for the whole coast and monitoring implementation of earthquake building codes. The estimated clost of this component is US$7 million which includes implementation of immediate priority investments. (c) Water and Wastewater Management will necessitate: monitoring of brine effluent from desalination plants and effluent of treatment plants within the context of the marine water quality program; fully connecting the Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab, and Sharm El Sheikh municipalities and all hotel complexes to a sewage collection and treatment system; developing and implementing an action plan for wastewater reuse; and reducing loses in the water distribution systems of Nuweiba and Dahab. The estimated cost of these investments is US$70.7 million, of which US$20 million is funded by USAID. (d) Solid Waste Management will focus on implementing solid waste collection, recycling and disposal system for the Aqaba coast; and implementing solid waste collection on the Nuweiba-Aqaba ferries which transport 1.25 million passengers each year. Estimated cost of this component is US$30.3 million. (e) Protected Areas Manazement will build on the ongoing work of EEAA's Department of Nature Protection. It will consist in completing equipment and staff training for Nabq and Abu Galum Managed Resouirces Protected Areas; identifying, through ministerial decree, the areas adjacent to core protected areas in order to protect adjacent areas according to Law 102; reinforcing Bedouin program activities; increasing protection of coral reefs in the three core protected areas; designing and enforcing appropriate regulations and licensing systems outside core protected areas; establishing and enforcing a licensing system for tourism activities in protected desert ecosystems, especially in desert areas in the vicinity of coastal developments; implementing a research program on the carrying capacity of the coral reefs; designing and implementing a visitor/tourism operator environmental awareness program; upgrading GIS capacity and network; providing a communication system; and studying bird migration. Estimated cost of this component is US$17 million of which US$15.5 million is funded by the EU. (ix) Public Awareness and Environmental Education 40. It will consist of designing and implementing an education program aimed at increasing public support and participation in the protection and management of the environment of the Gulf of Aqaba. The program will encourage the participation of members of the general public, specific socio-economic and interest groups (such as the private sector and tourists), and NGOs in both the development and implementation of the action plan, including identification of problems, the development of solutions, and subsequent monitoring of environmental concerns. Estimated cost is US$500,000. Sustainability of the Environmental Protection of the Gulf of Aqaba 41. The first measure to be taken' by the Government to ensure the sustainability of the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba would be to increase budget allocation to the two main public players, EEAA and SSG. As a correlative measure, funds from the Environmental Fund, generated by the South Sinai Protected Areas should be earmarked to cover annual recurrent costs of the protected areas and of the SS-RBO. To enable response to the increased stress on the ecosystems, resulting from intensive expansion of hotels and accompanying tourism activities, the collection of other user fees for reinvestment in the protection of core protected areas and environmental monitoring should be encouraged. In addition, public beach areas should be identified and managed to allow for equitable access of the waterfront while safekeeping tourism investments. Finally, integration of native populations in the regional development process, as practiced in Nuweiba and the core protected areas, is an essential ingredient to overall sustainability. Cost is estimated at US$500,000. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF THE GAEAP 42. The primary benefit of the program will be the establishment of a local capability to prevent, contain or manage the undesirable consequences of development, while facilitating economic growth. Resulting benefits will include: the clean-up of marine, littoral and desert areas; a reduction of pollutants at source; the establishment of marine pollution disaster contingency capabilities; the maintenance of critical ecosystems and cultural resources; and the establishment of water use efficiency measures. Furthermore, sustainability of the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba would be achieved. 43. On the other hand, if the action recommended in this report are delayed or remain unimplemented, there is a very real risk that irreparable damage will be caused to the marine and desert environments. Such a damage is likely to have seriously negative repercussions on the tourism industry. GULF OF AQABA ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN, EGYPT Table 1: Summary of Actions, Responsibilities, Costs and Priorities ACTION COST RESPONSIBILITY PRIORITY TAITR.11'2 USS million LEVELI' Al. Establishment of the Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council Govemor/EEAA/TDA/ I (EACCC) in SSG SFlPS/Bedouins/NGO A 2. Establishment of EEAA South Sinai Regional Branch Office (SS- 3.5 EEAA I TA/EQP RBO) in Sharm El-Sheikh - Implementation of a Comprehensive Resource Evaluation (CRE) study 1.5 EEAA I TA A 3. Strengthening of SSG Environmental Management Unit (EMU) 1.5 SSG I TA/EQP A4. Promotion of Private/Public Sectors Partnershi Govemor/TDA/PS I B1. Enforcing EIA Regulations - Increasing TDA capacity for CAA functions 1.0 TDA/EEAA 1 TA/TR - Increasing SSG/EMU capacity for CAA functions (A3) SSG/EEAA 1 TR - Increasing SS-RBO capacity for EIA review (A2) EEAA 1 TR - Developing guidelines and SS-RBO capacity for monitoring EIA (A2) SSG/EEAA I TA/TR application B2. Enhancin g Legal Protection of A,acent Areas (see G) Cl. Establishment of Oil Spill Combating Emergency Centers in Ras 8.0 [EU EEAA (EMS) 1 TA/TR/ Mohammed and Nuweiba funding] * EQP - Construction of centers - Hiring and training of staff C2. Construction of Sanitation Facilities in the Nuweiba and Sharm El 0.5 EEAA/MOMT 2 1 Sheikh ports C3. Design and Implementation of a Marine Water Quality Monitoring 0.2 EEAA (EQS/DNP)/ 1 EQP ProRram SS-RBO Di. Flood Protection SSG/SRA/MOPWWR 1 I - Desi_n flood protection masterplan 2.0 __ - Immediate implementation of priority investments 5.0 D2. Earthquakes Monitoring of earth_quake building code enforcement SSG/SS-RBO 2 (continued next page) V A" k = * El. Close Monitoring of Brine Effluent from Desalination Plants and of Effluents from Treatment Plants Along the Whole Coast (see C3) SS-RBO E2. Taba - Construction of wastewater treatment plant 0.5 SRA I I E3. Nuweiba - Assessment of the causes for the 40% water losses in the desalinated water SSG/SRA 2 TA distribution system and design of remedial action to minimize the losses - Rehabilitation of the Nuweiba water supply system and rehabilitation and 20.0 [USAID SSG/SRA I extension of the wastewater treatment oxidation ponds fimding.* - Construction of water pipeline from the Ain Furtaga well fields to 0.5 SSG/SRA I I Nuweiba E4. Dahab - Assessment of the causes for the 35% water losses in the desalinated water SSG/SRA 2 TA distribution system and design of remedial action to minimize the losses - Rehabilitation of wastewater treatment oxidation ponds 0.5 SSG/SRA I I - Rehabilitation of Dahab hotels individual treatment plants 0.2 Private Sector 2 I ES. Sharm El Sheikh x_ - Finalization of 15,000 m`/day oxidation wastewater treatment plant in 20.0 SRA owned/ I I Sharm El Sheikh (including network and pumping station) PS operated - Finalization of SSWC 7,000 m3/day activated sludge wastewater treatment 5.0 Private Sector I I plant in Sharm El Sheikh - Construction of pipelines for effluent water reuse in Sharm El Sheikh 3.0 Private Sector II - Construction of 7,000m /da desalination 2lant in the Sheikh bay area 21.0 Private Sector I ZO M I 11e1 11111111 - Implementation of solid waste collection, recycling and disposal for the 30.0 Private Sector I Aqaba coast __ - Implementation of solid waste collection on the Nuweiba - Aqaba ferry 0.3 Private Sector 1 PP ArabBideMitC - Completion of equipment and staff training for Nabq and Abu Galum 15.5 [EU EEAA (DNP) I TA/TR/ Protected Areas funding] * EQP - Strengthening of Bedouin program activities * EEAA (DNP)/SF I TA - Official identification of adjacent areas surrounding core protected areas EEAA 1 - Increase protection of coral reefs on the entire coast through increase of EEAA.(DNP) I TA/EQP the patrol staff and equipment (boats, cars, motorcycles, camels) . (continued next page) - Development and implementation of conservation guidelines outside the EEAA (DNP) 1 TA core protected areas (boating, fishing, diving, snorkeling, hiking, off-road driving, jet and water skiing) - Establishment and enforcement of a licensing system for tourism activities EEAA.(DNP) 2 TA in protected desert ecosystems, especially in desert areas in the vicinity of coastal developments - Design and implementation of an environmental public awareness program * EEAA (DNP) I TA (see H) Implementation of a research program on coral reef carrying capacity - Undertake economic valuation of the park in relation to tourism 0.2 EEAA(DNP) 2 TA developments - Provision of communication system 0.1 EEAA(DNP) 2 EQP - Restoration of scenic value of the desert ecosystem adjacent to primary 1.0 EEAA(DNP) 2 EQP tourist roads - Migration and ringing studies of birds 0.1 EEAA(DNP) 2 TA - Upgrade of the GIS capacity of DNP and link to EEAA. IDSC and1 qqQl EEAA(DTPT) _ EQP systems - Design and implementation of a public awareness and environmental 0.5 EEAA/EMU/TDAIPS/ TA/TR/ educationsroQa - Reallocation of portion of revenues generated by the core protected areas EEAA I TA to cover annual recuffent costs of PA and SS-RBO management - Assessment of environmental fees collection 0.1 SS-RB0 2 TA - Identification and establishment of public beaches 0.4 EACCC/SS-RBO I 1 ____________________________________________________________/DNP/SF - Integration of native populations in the regional development process SSG/SS-RBO/SF I TA/EQP Abbreviations MOMT - Ministry of Maritime Transport 1/ Priority 1: for immediate action PP - "Polluter-Pays" principle 2/ Priority 2: to be accomplished within the medium term SES - Sharm El Sheikh TA Technical Assistance SF - Social Fund for Development TR Training I Investment * Ongoing Activity I. OVERVIEW A. Background 1.1 The Gulf of Aqaba is one of the two northern extensions of the Red Sea separating the Sinai peninsula from Arabia. It is approximately 260-km long, 14-26 km wide, has an average depth of 800 meters and joins the main body of the Red Sea via the narrow (6 km) Tiran straight (See maps I and 2). This enclosed marine environment is surrounded by desert characterized by extreme temperatures and low rainfall. Since there are no permanent rivers flowing into the Gulf of Aqaba, the waters tend to be hyper-saline, but mid oceanic water quality and biota prevail. Water temperature remains in the range of 20-26 'C. 1.2 The enclosed nature of the Gulf results in reduced, lake-type circulation, which is primarily controlled by evaporation, with replacement waters entering via the Tiran Strait. The relatively small size of the water body combined with limited exchange of water with the open sea considerably reduces the potential for dispersion of water pollutants. The impact of contaminants is further concentrated due to their input being localized to the areas around urban, tourism and industrial developments, such as Aqaba and Eilat where oil, phosphates, other industrial wastes and sewage are produced and occasionally discharged into the sea. 1.3 The Gulf of Aqaba is bordered by Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Egypt, Israel and Saudi Arabia each claim 12 miles of territorial waters in the Gulf of Aqaba. Jordan claims 3 miles of territorial waters. About 260 km of the Gulfs coastline is Egyptian territory. The government has already established three core protected areas, covering 38% of the total coast line, i.e. the Ras Mohammed National Park and the Nabq and Abu Galum Managed Resources Protected Areas. The government has also declared as protected its entire littoral on the Gulf of Aqaba seaward of the highest high-water line. 1.4 Egypt is preparing for rapid development of tourism activities and related infrastructure along the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba. Tourism is a fast growing sector along the Gulf of Aqaba coast of Egypt. With over 500,000 visitors in 1996 spending 3.8 million hotel nights, the Gulf of Aqaba coast contributed about 6% of Egypt's total revenue from tourism which amounted to US$3.4 billion in 1996. Developing the tourism industry is a Government priority due to its impact in terms of foreign exchange earning and employment generation. 1.5 The Egyptian Gulf of Aqaba coast, endowed with year round favorable climate, exceptional coral reef formations and clear waters attracts a considerable flow of tourists, thus generating substantial foreign exchange earnings. To date the majority of tourism development on the Egyptian Red Sea coast has been concentrated around Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Nuweiba. However, there is cause for concern for the remainder of the Sinai coastline. The entire coast between Sharm El Sheikh and the South boundary of the Nabq Protected Area has been allocated for tourism development and a rapid expansion of tourism, often lacking appropriate infrastructure, is already occurring from Nuweiba onwards. 1.6 The intensive development of tourism in the Gulf of Aqaba, Egypt presents both an opportunity and a dilemma. Intensive tourism, if left unmanaged, can inflict irreversible damage on coral reef ecosystems, which in turn will limit the area's economic potential. There are already warning signals of 2 unsustainable recreational pressure at a number of sites in the Gulf of Aqaba. Together with current projections for a rapid expansion of the tourism base in the Sinai coast, degradation from mounting recreational activities give rise to serious concerns about the sustainability of tourist development in the region. 1.7 The challenge is to plan for economic development within a sound environmental framework which will also reduce public health hazards; conserve valuable marine resources, including coral reefs and fisheries; and maintain the aesthetic attributes of the Gulf enviromnent and waters, upon which the tourist industry depends. Disregard of environmental issues could jeopardize anticipated prospects for the growth of the tourism industry. Cautious planning, incorporating the resilience of the ecosystem, is essential in order to conserve the character and long-termn development potential of the region. B. Land-Use and Population Land-Use 1.8 Land use can be categorized by the jurisdictional boundaries of the three key government agencies involved in the area: (a) the local government with authority over the urbanized areas consisting of four small cities: Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba; (b) the Department of Nature Protection (DNP) of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) which supervises the core protected areas: the Ras Mohammed National Park, and the Nabq and Abu Galum Managed Resource Area; and (c) the Tourism Development Authority (TDA) which has jurisdiction over the currently undeveloped remainder of the Gulf coast outside of the municipalities and the core protected areas. 1.9 Within the Gulf of Aqaba coastal area of the South Sinai, the majority of the population (estimated at 38,000, excluding tourists) is concentrated in the four municipalities. Rural areas support a small population of nomadic Bedouins (about 3,000). 1.10 DNP manages the South Sinai Protected Sector which covers the whole marine environment along the 260-km nearshore and intertidal zones. It includes the Ras Mohammed National Park, comprising some 480 kM2 of marine and terrestrial areas at the Ras Mohammed peninsula and the island of Tiran; the Nabq Managed Resource Area, located 35 Km north of Sharm El Sheikh and covering an area of over 600 km2; and the Abu Galum Managed Resource Area which includes an area of 400 km2 between Dahab and Nuweiba. 1.11 Outside the boundaries of the municipalities and those of the core protected areas, the TDA exercises jurisdiction. These areas have been planned and allocated for future tourism development. Population 1.12 Resident populations estimated at 38.000 are concentrated in the four cities. These are from North to South Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh. Current official population projections are prepared by the South Sinai Govemorate based on growth trends. These may not reflect the rapid growth of the Gulf of Aqaba communities. Further, estimated populations for these communities were based on employment criteria for the tourism industry and may include non-resident or part-time resident occupants of non-tourist housing. For this reason, the official estimates are approximations, at best. These estimates are reflected in the following table and represent permanents residents of the Gulf of 3 Aqaba coast in 1997, excluding tourists and construction workers and including the hotel employees housed and serviced by tourism establishments: City Estimated Population Taba 2,000 Nuweiba 8,000 Dahab 6,000 Sharm El Sheikh 22,000 C. Dilemma of Development in the Gulf of Aqaba - The Case of Egypt 1.13 The case of Egypt illustrates the dilemma of development in the Gulf of Aqaba. In the 1960s, the coastline of the Gulf of Aqaba was sparsely populated and unaffected by development activities. In the last 20 years, the Gulf of Aqaba has (with the exception of periods of political unrest) become an increasingly busy shipping route and tourist destination. The Egyptian Government views the Gulf of Aqaba region as one with high economic growth potential and is planning further development of the tourism activities. 1.14 More than 60% of the coastline on the Gulf is in the process of being modified by the development of the tourism industry which began during the end of the 1980s. 1.15 Rapid growth of tourist visitations in the late 1980s has spurred interest in further development of tourism as an additional source of foreign exchange. However, the future of tourism on the Aqaba coast is reliant on the maintenance of a pristine natural and clean environment. If inadequately planned, the expansion of tourism to Aqaba could itself constitute a threat to the resources that the industry depends on. 1.16 As a result of tourism development, the resident population of the Egyptian coastal zone has increased from 10,000 to nearly 40,000 over the last twenty years. Non-tourist population is expected to reach 109,000 in 2002, and 166,000 by 2017. The number of hotel beds increased from 1,200 in 1992 to over 14,000 in 1997, and is expected to reach 58,000 in 2002 and over 90,000 in 2017. Other government projections suggest a long-term target as high as 200,000 beds. The number of visitors increased from a few thousand to more than 500,000 in 1996 (of which two third are international tourists) and is expected to reach over three million by 2017. 1.17 Such a booming development is placing the marine and terrestrial ecosystems under serious threats resulting from increased releases of urban and construction wastes and expanding recreational activities. D. The Gulf of Aqaba Coral Reef Ecosystems: A Global Concern Global Perspective 1.18 The Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba shoreline is fringed with coral reefs. While the biological diversity of the Red Sea has been insufficiently studied, it is apparent that the Gulfs atypical oceanographic characteristics have resulted in an increase in number and diversity of endemic species 4 among the coral reef communities. Existing information indicates that coral diversity is greater in the Gulf of Aqaba (48 genera and 210 species) than in the central Red Sea (40 genera and 116 species). Species diversity increases from the central Red Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba, but colony size decreases. 1.19 Twelve percent (80 species) of mollusks and a similar proportion of echinodermata occurring in the Gulf of Aqaba may be endemic. Fifteen percent of the Gulfs amphipod species have only been recorded in the Gulf of Aqaba and adjacent neighboring Red Sea areas. Several species of algae are also believed to be endemic. Of the 1000 species of finfish that have been recorded from the Gulf of Aqaba, seven are recognized as endemic. Equally significant, 23 species of fish that are common elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific region do not occur anywhere in the Red Sea. These data indicate that the Gulf of Aqaba is an area of significant endemism and that the preservation of the region's marine biological diversity is of global importance. Role of Coral Reef Ecosystems 1.20 Coral reef communities are an important component of the Gulf of Aqaba's marine ecosystem. The marine coastal ecosystems include sand and mud areas (some of which support substantial sea grass beds), rocky outcrops, coastal lagoons, fiinging coral reefs, and scattered coral heads. Together these habitats constitute a delicately balanced, interdependent and productive biological system, which includes and sustains both coastal and pelagic fisheries. 1.21 In addition to the importance of coral reef systems to maintenance and development of the Gulf tourist industry, fringing reefs play an imllortant role as a barrier to wave action and erosion. Also coral reefs, like other photocalcification organisms, such as micro calcareous algae, may be a major component of biological regulation of CO2 pressure in the atmosphere. Threats to the Egyptian Coast of the Gulf of Aqaba Coral Reef Ecosystem 1.22 Coral reef communities in the Grulf of Aqaba are particularly susceptible to changes in the environment as coral occurs here at the limits of temperature tolerance for many of the reef building organisms and the Gulfs waters contain unusually low levels of nutrients. The main threats to the Gulf's coral reefs ecosystems originate from: sediments from construction; solid waste, especially plastics; sediments resulting from flash floods; oil spills; brine effluent from desalination plants; boats anchoring; snorkeling and diving misuse as well as recreation overpressure in some sites. Sewage water discharges do not pose a serious problem in the Sharrn El Sheikh area since most hotels on the Gulf of Aqaba coast operate their own wastewater treatment systems and use the effluent to irrigate their gardens. However, elsewhere on the coast, much of the poorl) treated municipal wastewater percolates into the groundwater, and could have damaging effects on coral r eefs over the long run. 1.23 Oil spills currently constitute serious threats to the Gulf of Aqaba's coral reefs. Occasional oil spills are concentrated near several oil fields in the Gulf of Suez where, in 1982, an accidental spill affected a large area of coastline extending as far as the entrance to the Gulf of Aqaba. About 200,000 tourists in 1996, representing 30 % of the total number of visitors of Egypt, visit the Egyptian Aqaba coast mainly to view the coral reef formations by snorkeling and diving. Worrisome evidence suggests that stress from recreational activities is increasing in the Gulf, reaching unsustainable levels at some coral sites. In the Sharm El Sheikh area, there are 36 dive centers and more than 230 boats taking divers to various sites. Increasing number of snorkelers also visit the area. The number of recreational centers, whose main activity inside Ras Mohammed is snorkeling, is increasing, with 21 in Sharm El Sheikh area at present. 5 1.24 A large amount of damage to coral associated with reef tourism results from boats anchoring on the reef outside the core areas of the South Sinai Protected Area Sector where there are no anchoring buoys. Coral Reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba: An Asset for Present and Future Generations 1.25 The unspoiled beauty of the marine environment along the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba attracts an increasing number of visitors. Compared to other regions, a relatively small proportion of coral reef ecosystems off the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba are currently affected by anthropogenic impacts. Until recently the Sinai coast of the Gulf has been sparsely populated in widely separated settlements and characterized by minimal economic activity. Despite rapid expansion of tourism in the South Sinai since the late 1980s, the establishment of the South Sinai Protected Area Sector, coupled with good management practices in the protected areas, has contributed significantly to preservation of coral reef resources. The challenge is to maintain the quality of the reefs all along the coast within the current and foreseen development. E. Additional Biodiversity 1.26 Marine mammals in the Gulf of Aqaba include dugongs (sea cows), observed in small numbers. Dugongs feed on sea grasses in the Tiran Island area. Spotted and bottle-nosed dolphin also inhabits the Gulfs waters. Sea turtles observed in the Gulf include the green, hawksbill and leatherback species. The globally threatened Whale Shark, the largest fish specie, is also found in the Aqaba waters. 1.27 The Jordan Rift Valley and Wadi Araba desert serve as a flyway for 400 millions birds migrating from Europe and Asia to Africa and back. Over 200 bird species have been observed traveling this route, among them the white and black stork and several species of birds of prey, the latter passing through the Aqaba region and Wadi Araba particularly on their springtime northward migration. Many migrants also rest and feed in the Aqaba area. The Gulf-fringing highlands may be inhabited by rare predators such as Lammergeier and Sooty Falcon while the lower wadis contain typical desert and tropical species including rarities such as Little Green Beater, Hooded Wheatear and Arabian Warbler. The Ras Mohammed, Nabq and Tiran areas have been identified as Internationally Important Bird Areas (IBAS) for their significance as migration stations. 1.28 Coastal desert and mountains have a unique plant (over 400 species) and animal life, including mammals such as the Dorcas Gazelle found in the coastal plains, Nubian Ibex in the mountains, wolves, red foxes, hyrax and caracals. F. Transboundary Issues 1.29 The riparian governments recognize that many environmental problems are not confined by national boundaries and the establishment of regional environmental protection mechanisms are urgently required. Regional concerns include the potential for accidental spills of oil and chemicals from shipping and the steadily increasing pollution of the Gulf's marine waters from land sources, shipping activities (e.g. Egypt/Jordan ferries) and expanding aquaculture. 1.30 Egypt is a signatory to five international conventions which have relevance for the protection the marine environment of the Gulf of Aqaba. In addition, Egypt is participating in a regional project 6 supported by the European Union aimed at preparing an oil spill contingency plan and establishing oil spills combating centers in Nuweiba, Eilat and Aqaba for coordinated actions. G. Objectives of the "Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan" for Egypt 1.31 The principal objective of the Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan for Egypt (hereafter referred to as the GAEAP) is to develop a strate& and the local capability to manage the environmental issues and conservation needs of the Gulf of Aqaba. The GAEAP will aim at defining the means for preserving and protecting ecosystems of global significance and other natural resources of regional and national importance. 1.29 The Egyptian GAEAP will develop on-the-ground environmental management capabilities and initiate actions designed to promote private investment programs based on balancing economic development with environmental protection. Containment of the various causes of environmental degradation on the Egyptian portion of the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone is to call for investment actions in the areas of solid waste and wastewater management, tourism, transport, and the consolidation of the protected areas network. The requirement for new initiatives in these areas will be identified and investment priorities will be proposed. H. Content of the Report 1.30 This report proposes an enviromnental action plan to ensure protection of the unique natural resources of the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. Chapter II presents an overview of the developments that have occurred in the Egyptian section of the Gulf's coastline and examines existing and potential environmental threats. Chapter m reviews national and international legislation and analyses institutional aspects in the context of current and future developments, while Chapter IV analyses the current status and practices for environmental management and suggests options for improvement. Chapter V outlines the key principles of the Environmental Action Plan. Chapter VI, the bulk of the report, lays out the legal and institutional requirements as backbones of the plan, and presents the actions (technical assistance and investment) needed to remedy current problems and prevent further degradation of the Gulf of Aqaba's unique land-water interface. II. ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS A. Economic Activity 2.1 For decades, the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone provided a subsistence level of support for a small nomad Bedouin population (about 3,000 people) from sheep and goat raising in the piedmont areas and net fishing on the reef. Maritime activity comprised cargo and tanker shipping to the Eilat and Aqaba ports and the ferry traffic between Nuweiba and Aqaba. A small resident population of less than 20,000 was concentrated in the four coastal communities of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba. The recent and rapid emergence of the tourism industry is now transforming the economy, land use and demography throughout the Gulf coastal zone. 7 Al. The Tourism Industry 2.2 Tourism is a major and fastest growing sector in Egypt's economy. It provides the second most important source of foreign currency and a major job-generating industry, in an economy struggling with underemployment. More than three million tourists generated over US$3 billion to Egypt's economy in 1996 and the tourism sector is receiving continuing attention from the Egyptian Government. In this connection, the Ministry of Tourism has identified the Gulf of Aqaba as a priority area for tourism development. Already a significant portion of Egypt's tourism activity is in the South Sinai. More than 500,000 tourist visitors were recorded in the Gulf area in 1996, representing 14% of the national total. The number of hotel beds in Sharm El Sheikh, the current focal point of tourist activity in the area has increased from about 800 in 1992 to over 9,000 in 1997. Hotel Development 2.3 Hotel capacity required to accommodate the growing flow of tourist is being developed by the private sector, i.e. Egyptian investors often in joint venture with foreign investors from European and Arab countries. Hotel categories range from one to five stars and include all modem facilities such as swimming pools, beach facilities, shopping arcades, casinos, health and diving clubs, etc. 2.4 New hotel construction, continuing in Sharm El Sheikh, is planned to expand within the Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba urbanized areas (see map 2). Outside these municipal boundaries, the government's Tourism Development Authority (TDA) has allocated all the land for tourism development and significant construction activity is ongoing. 2.5 Currently (1997) a total of 14,710 hotel beds1' are available on the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba (against 892 in 1992). If the planned scale of development is achieved, total capacity in 2017 would represent over 90,000 beds as indicated in the table below, an astonishing number in comparison to the 140,000 beds (68,000 hotel rooms) that existed in all of Egypt in 1995. Table 2.1: Projection of the Number of Hotel Beds2' S S ~~~~770 9,000 9,770 9,530 17,000 26,530 13,950 25,000 38,900 illl~~~~ 1,800 1,800 3,000 4,000 7,000 4,900 10,000 14,900 1 | ~~~1,200 1,200 2,400 7,580 1,500 9,'080 11,370 2,500 13,870 11 J ~~~~200 540 740 12,770 2,500 15,270 19,150 5,000 24,150 To tal WANa _1 Current hotel capacity is difficult to determine in view of the rapidity of hotel construction and lack of consolidated official data. The numbers used in this report are estimates at best of the hotel capacity in mid 1997. The projection is based on municipal development plans provided by the local administration and the planned room construction in TDA sectors provided by TDA. 8 Trunk Infrastructure 2.6 To foster tourism activity on the Gulf of Aqaba coast, the GOE has implemented important public investments including, in particular, an intemational airport in Sharm El Sheikh, a coastal highway from the South Sinai capital city ol' El Tur to Taba and Suez, a high voltage power line, telecommunication systems and a hospilal. A water supply pipeline from the Suez canal to Sharm El Sheikh is under construction and a project for constructing a new airport in Nuweiba is under consideration. Infrastructure Services 2.7 In the TDA areas"t, infrastructure services are provided by the investors in the form of small package plants for water desalination .md waste water treatment. In the municipal territory, such infrastructure is made available to the new hotels by the local administration. Tourist Visitation and Spending 2.8 In 1996, over 500,000 tourists, one third of which were Egyptians, spent a total of 3.8 million nights in the Aqaba coast hotels, corresponding to an average occupancy of about 70 % of hotel capacity41. The total number of visitors is projected by TDA to reach 3 million per year by 2017 with 50% occupancy. 2.9 Based on an average spending pvr visitor of US$55 per night'/, total revenue for 1996 from the tourism sector in the Gulf coast therefoie amounted to about US$207 million, representing 6 % of the total Egypt revenue from tourism, estimated at US$3.4 billion in 1996 (details in Annex 8). Tourist Activity 2.10 Clean sandy beaches, sparkling clear water, warm air and water temperatures and the beauty of the Red Sea provide the traditional "suri, sea and sand" attraction for most of the tourists. Coral reef exploration by snorkeling and scuba diviiig, strongly advertised by the tourism industry on the European market, is a major activity for an estimated 30 % of the visitor population. This activity is organized by a number of private diving centers (42 centers in 1996) providing individual equipment and instructors and operating a fleet of diving boats (310 boats in Sharm El Sheikh alone). The boats tour the coral reef within and outside the core protected areas for day cruises and moor at the best diving sites of the reef wall. 2.11 Due to the limited resources of !-he Gulf, off-shore fishing is currently a minor tourist activity. However, there are plans for developing I his activity through acquisition of appropriate vessels. 2.12 Desert safaris, characterized by Inregulated off-road driving using rental four-wheel drive cars and cross-country motorbikes, is a growing activity. The Bedouin population is involved through provision of guides, drivers and camping facilities. 3' See area definitions in par. 2. 18 i/ Bank estimates, based on data collected from central and local sources. -5' Bank estimate, lower than the national average of US$148, to reflect the specific structure of the visitor population to the Gulf coast 9 A2. Maritime Activities International Shipping 2.13 Although there is no cargo traffic to the Egyptian coast, the Gulf of Aqaba is a route for international shipping. In 1993, 1,615 vessels passed the Tiran Strait directed to, or originating from, Eilat and Aqaba ports, in Israel and Jordan respectively. Unloaded cargo averages 6 million tons in Aqaba, mainly comprising crude oil and oil products, and 300,000 tons in Eilat including automobiles, chemicals and limited quantities of crude oil. Cargo loaded on board averages 9 million tons in Aqaba and 1.2 million ton in Eilat, mainly including bulk phosphate and phosphate derivatives (fertilizer and phosphoric acid). 2.14 There are no clear projections for future cargo shipping activity in the Gulf. Globally, there might be some decline in terms of oil import. The loaded tonnage might also decline due to a shift in export from bulk phosphate to phosphate derivatives, phosphoric acid in particular. Ferry Traffic 2.15 About 1.25 million passengers per year, mostly expatriate Egyptian workers, use the ferry boat service operating year-round between Nuweiba and Aqaba (about 1,100 rotations per year). In addition, there is a small cargo traffic on the same route including loaded trucks and live animals. Such traffic might reduce significantly in the future if the Taba-Eilat-Aqaba road is constructed as part of the Middle East Peace Process. Cruise Traffic 2.16 The port of Sharm El Sheikh handles a modest annual cruise and charter traffic (500 vessels, 35,000 visitors), set to increase with the commissioning of small to medium size vessels of 100 to 500 passengers, having Sharm El Sheikh as their home port. B. Permanent Population 2.17 The permanent population-'' of the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, estimated at some 15,000 in 1990, is dramatically expanding to meet the demand for workers generated by the tourism industry. Based on the hotel room projection (par. 2.6) and assuming that one hotel room (equivalent to two beds) generates 1.3 to 1.5 job for hotel employees and another job for tourist related employment (TDA employment ratios), the total population of the Gulf coast would increase from 38,000 in 1997 up to 109,000 by 2002 and 166,000 by 2017. Bank estimate of the resident population is detailed in Annex 3 and summarized in the following table: In this Report, the "Permanent Population" includes the population having the official status of "municipal resident" as well as the population not having such a status but living within the municipal boundaries or the TDA sectors. The Resident Population comprises all hotel workers, housed in or outside the hotels and excludes the construction workers and the tourists 10 Table 2.2: Projection of the Resident Population ~~1997 002 0 Wii , ,,w,N^ S-, :1: 70 'IDA Mudp~ ota ID Mmkip Toal IDA mq Tol i;nueI9Idi 1,000 21,000 22,000 7,000 41,000 48,000 10,000 60,000 70,000 t000000000000tIbbalmb00 06,000 6,0)0 2,000 13,000 15,000 4,000 24,000 28,000 Nuiidba 1,000 7,000 8,0()0 6,000 14,000 20,000 9,000 19,000 28,000 T000abs0000;f0>at000 t00 2,000 2,0()0 10,000 16,000 26,000 14,000 26,000 40,000 Total O 60 38,000 25)00 1, 0 0 120 1 C. Land Development Land Allocation 2.18 To rationalize tourism development and, simultaneously protect the coral reef, the Government has defined and delineated the three following categories of land with their projected use: (a) the core protected areas, comprising the Ras Mohammed National Park, and the Nabq and Abu Galum "Managed Resource Protected Areas", occupying an estimated 38% of the coast line, extend inland from 5 to 10 km and offshore to include the associated coral reef, in which economic activities are totally regulated by EEAA; (b) the municipal areas within the boundaries of the four existing towns of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba. The total coastline within municipal jurisdiction is estimated at 21% of the coastal line. The municipal areas, extending inland from 2 to 3 km, are projected for urban development, including tourism resorts under the control of the local government; and (c) the tourism areas, comprising the remaining undeveloped coastal state land, occupying 41% of the coast line and extending 700 meters inland from the coastal road, which is made available to private investors for tourism development and placed under the TDA jurisdiction. 2.19 The following table indicates the breakdown into each category of land use of the 260 km long Egyptian coast line of the Gulf of Aqaba: 11 Table 2.3: Length of land-use segments of the coast line7' Coastal segment Length of coast line (km) % Core Protected Areas Ras Mohammed 26 Nabq 47 Abu Galum 25 Sub-total 98 38 Tourism Development Land South Nabq 9 Dahab 24 Nuweiba 1 5 Taba 60 Sub-total 108 41 Total 260 100 In the municipal and TDA areas, the nearshore area, containing the coral reef and the immediate cost line, is declared as protected area and placed under EEAA supervision (see par. 3.3). Protected Areas 2.20 Economic activities are prohibited except if they are authorized by the EEAA. Only a few tourism resorts are currently located within the three protected areas. Tourism Areas 2.21 All of the land under TDA jurisdiction is allocated to private investors for construction of tourism resorts. For the design of tourism facilities, guidelines are imposed with respect to land use, density of occupancy, etc. (see Chapter 4). According to TDA regulations, allocated land must be developed within three years. This implies that a major construction effort will take place by 2002 and will give a enormous boost to the hotel capacity (as reflected in the above projections of hotel beds and population). 2.22 In the absence of water-related infrastructure during the startup period, each investor was required to provide water supply through individual water desalination, wastewater treatment and garbage collection services. In the newly allocated sectors, the construction of collective utility systems by private service companies has been made compulsory by TDA. A pioneer privately-financed project for desalination of 3000 m3/day of water in Sharm El Sheikh is successfully operated. A companion wastewater treatment and reuse project is under implementation in the same area and two privately- operated solid waste management projects covering the entire coastal region are under consideration. 7J EEAA-DNP estimates 12 Municipal Areas 2.23 Central and local governments are promoting construction of additional tourist facilities in each of the four Gulf coast cities, which will induce an increased demand for utility services. This demand will even be exacerbated by the expansion of residential housing as additional tourism-related population growth occurs. 2.24 Meeting the demand for drinking water, sanitation and garbage collection and disposal will be a major challenge placed on understaffed and poorly equipped municipalities, in addition to their other needs to meet the associated demand for' housing and social services (schools, hospitals, transportation, etc.). The difficulty for the municipalities to keep pace with the speed of development of the tourism industry is already obvious. Poor planning, insufficient funding and lack of human resources have resulted in the expensive addition of small projects with fragmented management (as an example, water is supplied to the municipality of Sharrn El Sheikh by four collective desalination plants, two water conveyors, and a number of small and nkedium size individual hotel desalination plants), piped systems operated beyond capacity and poorly-collected garbage. As a result, the deficiency of municipal infrastructure services translates into mounting pollution in the municipal areas with serious impacts on adjacent desert and marine environments (see chapter IV). D. Environmental Threats Causes of Environmental Deterioration 2.25 The principal threats to the environment arise from: (i) the land-based pollution and uncontrolled visitor activities, both resulting from the dominant tourism industry, and (ii) local and transboundary marine pollution resulting from sustained maritime activity, as described below: (a) Tourist activities, spurred by the attraction of the marine and desert ecosystems, adversely impact natural resources by mechanical processes such as boat anchoring, coral collection, off-road driving, etc.; (b) Land development for tourism resorts generates pollution from inefficient utility services leading to the release of untreated wastewater, accumulation of garbage on the land and coral reef, and indiscriminate solid waste disposal in the desert area. In addition, construction activities generate dust and waste affecting the marine and terrestrial ecosystems; arid (c) Maritime activities raise the risk of oil and chemical spills from tankers and cargo ships as well as the pervasive problem of uncontrolled releases of shipboard waste from international shipping, ferry traffic, and cruise boating. Marine aquaculture (particularly in the Eilat area) is an important source of nutrient wastes. The resulting pollution affects the offshore waters and the shoreline including the coral reef and the beaches. 2.26 The impact on the ecosystems cf tourist activities and pollution from land and off-shore based pollution are discussed in the following sections. 13 Coral Reef Destruction 2.27 The extensive coral reef formations along the Gulf of Aqaba coast present the greatest potential exposure to serious environmental damage. Although current degradation of the reef is limited to discrete areas and effective measures have been initiated to protect the reef, an increase in tourist visitation on the scale anticipated will put considerable pressure on the remaining reef and on the monitoring activity. The seriousness of the potential risks arises from the global significance of the Aqaba reef formation and the heavy reliance on promotion of the reef's attractions in marketing the area for tourism. In those areas where damage has occurred, it has taken the form of direct physical contact from bathers, snorkelers, divers and boat anchorage. Damage has also occurred from wind-blown plastic debris which covers and smothers the coral. In a few areas, construction activity immediately adjacent to the shoreline has resulted in construction debris falling on the reef. Increased tourist traffic, unmonitored diving activity outside the core protected areas, increased coastal construction, failure to address the plastic waste problem, and potential oil spills, all pose a threat to this important natural resource. The Coastal Land-Interface Degradation 2.28 The condition of the immediate coastline in currently-developed areas illustrates the potential for significant environmental degradation posed by increased tourist development. Where hotels are sited close to the shore, there has necessarily been an alteration of the beach by addition of sand to make the beach more attractive to tourists. In some areas, construction debris has been allowed to degrade the shoreline, and in much of the area outside of developed tourist areas, the coastline is cluttered with waste materials, particularly plastic. All of these problems stem from unregulated or insensitive activity on the part of tourists and developers. All of them can be prevented with improved environmental sensitivity and enhanced monitoring by regulatory agencies. Without such actions, the anticipated increase in tourist activity will increase the scale and extent of degradation along the shoreline. Destruction of Desert Ecosystem 2.29 The desert ecosystem is extremely sensitive and less resilient than that of the sea. In the prevailing arid conditions and the somewhat minimal vegetable and animal diversity that characterizes the southern Sinai desert, anthropogenic impacts are generally adverse, highly visible and long-lasting. Because the tourist activity and access to the desert has been limited to date, so far the visible adverse impacts are minimal (except for solid waste). Increased tourism, however, will bring increased interest in desert tours and safaris. Consequently, efforts to control and mitigate the impacts are becoming more important. 2.30 Tourism development on land traditionally used by nomadic Bedouin tribes has resulted in overgrazing, waste accumulation and increased incidence of animal disease in the areas still left for indigenous way of life. Water Pollution from Maritime Activities and Transboundary Issues Pollution from Oil Spills 2.31 The occurrence of oil spills resulting from sustained oil transport traffic in the Gulf is probably the most internationally recognized potential environmental threat. About 2500 ships transit the Gulf of Aqaba annually of which 1600 pass the strait of Tiran. Oil spills types are commonly distributed in five categories depending on the quantity and source of the oily material released into the sea, i.e.(i) small 14 spills (up to 2 tons) caused by the accidental or intentional release of oil-contaminated bilge or ballast water from freighters; (ii) minor spills (up to 20 tons) caused by the release of oily ballast water from an oil tanker or the release of bunker oil during terminal operations; (iii) medium spills (up to 100 tons) caused by the release of oil as a result of defective equipment or procedures at an oil termninal or pipeline facility; (iv) major spills caused by the rupture of a bunker oil tank in a bulk/cargo vessel collision (up to 500 tons); and (v) disasters including tanker collision causing the rupture of a single oil tank (up to 7500 tons) and ship wreckage of a fully loaded oil tanker with release of total oil (up to 100,000 tons). 2.32 The risk of oil spill are rated high on about 30 km of the Egyptian coast line from the North of the Strait of Tiran southward, and as medium on the remaining part of the shoreline down to Sharm El Sheikh. They mainly result from the risks of navigation through the straight of Tiran. From 1961 to 1996, 14 incidents have been recorded between Tiran and Nabq, of which 4 produced an oil spill, most notably, the Lania incident in 1987 which resulted in a bunker oil spill of over 700 tons and the Million Hope incident in 1996 which produced a large spill of an unrecorded volume. Oil Spill Damage on Ecosystems 2.33 In the Gulf of Aqaba, the most sensitive ecosystems are the coral reefs, the seagrass beds and the mangroves. Oil pollution of the beaches may severely affect the tourism sector but the damage on sandy beaches is negligible as compared to the effects on the coral reefs. 2.34 Oil slicks have a tendency to float above the coral reefs and seagrass without causing severe damage. Detrimental effect occur when oil components are in direct contact with the corals or seagrass as is the case during low tide and with wave breaking. Oil component may also dissolve in the water and expose the coral and seagrass to toxic compounds. Furthermore, the use of chemical dispersants in reef areas increase the potential for exposing corals to oil compounds. 2.35 Damage to corals from oil pollution may result in the collapse of the complex community of organisms which live in close association with the corals. Direct damage to the corals may include acute death, damage to tissues, decrease of growth, damage in the reproductive system and decrease in colonization capacity. A long term study has found that continuous small spills in the port of Eilat from 1969 to 1979 had decreased coral and fish diversity, reduced colonization by corals and damaged their reproductive system. Other Sources of Pollution 2.36 Ferry Traffic. Oil transport into Nuweiba is minimal. A current problem is that of shipboard waste from the Gulf ferry between Nuwieiba and Aqaba. Much of this waste is non-degradable and is carried ashore by currents, adding to the problems on the coral reef and Sinai coastline. In addition, similar problems arise from land-originated solid waste from the three bordering countries. 2.37 Marine Aquaculture. Spurred by the demand for fresh fish from the expanding tourism industry of Eilat, the rapid development of marine aquaculture in the Eilat region has already resulted in the severe pollution of the marine waters surrounding the clusters of fish cages. The lack of regulation of this activity by the Israeli Government is raising the concern of the further eutrophication of the marine waters of the Taba area. 2.38 Cruise Boating. A visible marine pollution problem from maritime activities is the condition of the waters of the small harbor at Sharm El Moya, in Sharm El Sheikh. In addition to the brine discharged from an obsolete desalination plant, there is an accumulation of oil and sludge from the fleet of diving 15 boats and other vessels that occupy the harbor. Further, there is no effective waste collection system in the harbor. On-board sewage and solid waste are discharged indiscriminately into the harbor waters, with obvious and detrimental impacts to the nearby hotel beaches. The potential for increasing the number of boats using the harbor poses a major localized environmental threat (sewage collection will be addressed through construction of Sharm El Sheikh and Nuweiba sanitation facilities -see Chapter VI). E. Impact of Environmental Deterioration on Tourism Revenue 2.39 Tourism in the Gulf of Aqaba is performing well and expanding rapidly. Continued successful expansion of the tourism sector will depend on both external and internal factors: (a) External factors include international and national competition, and political stability of the region. A program of environmental protection of the natural resource base underlying the tourism attraction can assist the area in maintaining a competitive offering. Environmental protection measures will have little effect with respect to impacts of any political instability. For purposes of this analysis, the impacts of these external factors is assumed to be neutral. (b) The potential for adverse impact on industry performance can arise from the following internal factors: (i) overcapacity of the tourism industry leading to decreasing revenues; (ii) degradation of the resource, including destruction of coral reef and desert ecosystem, overcrowded beaches, polluted waters and deteriorated general appearance of the resource; and (iii) deterioration of service standards. 2.40 The response of tourism operators to any of these adverse influences will be to seek to maintain occupancy (60% is the generally accepted break-even occupancy). Rate reductions and concessions will occur, and the resulting lower per-guest revenue will be reflected in reduced service and maintenance expenditures. Operational budgets will focus more on marketing and promotion, allowing less for maintenance and environmental management operations. In the short run, rate competition of this nature usually results in attracting more visitors, for shorter stays, and less per-guest revenue. As more operators pursue the same potential visitor in the same market, the adverse influences are compounded. Loan defaults and/or bankruptcies occur, maintenance standards are lowered further, spending on resource protection suffers, and all at the same time as there is increased visitation pressure on the resource. 2.41 The interaction of such adverse influences on the Gulf of Aqaba tourism industry poses a complex analytical problem. It is possible, however, to make a simplistic example, based on the following assumptions (see Annex 7b): (a) the tourism industry will continue to expand as presently projected; and (b) the industry response to adverse conditions will be to seek to maintain a break-even occupancy, principally by marketing concessional rates. 2.42 Based on these assumptions, total potential visitation would decrease and potential annual gross revenues would be reduced by some US$240 million per year in 2002, and US$587 million in 2017. 16 2.43 Each adverse factor influences the others. It is difficult to assess the impact of one over another, but it can be estimated that 50% of the clecline in revenue can be attributed to the degradation of the natural resource, which is the main attraction for visitation, with the remainder attributable to overcapacity and deterioration of service standards. 2.44 The above numbers assume that the planned expansion of hotel room capacity actually occurs. One other potential impact of environmental degradation is that the planned investments do not occur and/or a portion of the existing investments goes out of business. F. The Native Population 2.45 The indigenous Bedouin population comprises a total of about 3,000 persons fragmented into a number of tribes, making a living from nomadic animal production or net fishing and obeying strict tribal law. With the onset of rapid tourism ilevelopment, this population has been displaced from their traditional areas in TDA or municipal areas. Bedouin settlements are now being established in the protected areas in close proximity to the coast. Bedouins have also opted to purchase land in tourism areas in, or adjacent to, established urban areas. The shrinking of Bedouins open land and the tendency to sedentary life have resulted in increasing damage on the natural ecosystems from overgrazing, fuelwood collection, destructive quarrying, and spread of animal diseases. Until now, EEAA policy has been to: (a) protect traditional land use rights; (b) regulate fishing activities and damaging practices (overgrazing, etc.); (c) contract services; and (d) integrate Bedouin populations into the management process of each protectorate. More actions are needed to maintain Bedouin traditions while protecting environment. III. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK A. Legal Framework 3.01 Of the multitude of national laws and regulations applicable throughout Egypt for environmental protection, three have particular relevance to the Gulf of Aqaba coastal area: (a) Law 102/1983 or "Law on the Natural Protectorates" and its associated prime ministerial decrees regulating activities in the protected areas; (b) Law 7/1991, and the subsequent presidential decree no. 274/1991, establishing TDA and regulating management by T'DA of state property assigned to the private sector for tourism development; and (c) Law 4/1994, or "Law for the Environment", which established the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency - EEAA - and the regulations issued thereunder. 3.02 Extracts of the three laws and relevant regulations are presented in Annex 1. 17 Law 102/1983 3.03 Law 102/1983 enables for: * within the officially declared protected areasO', (hereafter referred to as core protected areas): regulations of all activities; and * outside the core protected areas: regulations of activities that have an impact on resources in the core protected areas. 3.04 Three Prime Ministerial decrees are of particular relevance to the Gulf of Aqaba, i.e.: (a) decree 264/1994, providing DNP of EEAA with executive administrative authority over natural protectorates. DNP decisions are subject to ratification by EEAA's Chief Executive Officer; and (b) decrees 33/1996 and 2035/1996, defining the boundaries of the Ras Mohammed, Nabq and Abu Galum protectorates and declaring the entire coral reef and immediate coastline as protected areas, from Sharm El Sheikh to Taba. 3.05 The provisions of Law 102/1983 pertinent to the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba include: (a) except with permission from EEAA, prohibition of any activity within the officially declared protected areas which would lead to the destruction of the natural environment and biota, or would detract from the aesthetic standards of the protectorate; (b) regulation of recreational activities within the declared protected areas to protect natural resources; (c) surveillance and enforcement of regulatory measures; and (d) fines and penalties are set as deterrent and means of enforcement. 3.06 In the Gulf of Aqaba, Law 102/1983 has been effectively enforced ensuring sound protection against major and visible activities. The staff of DNP has been active in applying the law and regulations within the core protected areas. However, for the provisions of Law 102/1983 to be extended to the "adjacent areas" (see footnote 1 in par. 3.3), a ministerial decree defining the limits of such areas has yet to be adopted. ' The officially declared core protected areas include: (i) Ras Mohammed National Park; Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area; Abu Galum Managed Resource Protected Area; and (ii) the entire coral reef and adjacent shoreline along the 260 km coast, extending seaward from the highest equinox line (Highest High Water Spring-HHWS) to include all nearshore marine ecosystems to the depth of the 500 m isobath (decrees 33/1996 and 2035/1996). The "adiacent areas", surrounding the core protected areas, have yet to be identified through ministerial decree. 18 Law 4/1994 3.07 The provisions of Law 4/1994 pertinent to the protection of the Gulf of Aqaba's resources are as follows: (a) require environmental impact assessment (EIA) for projects and activities according to the system set by EEAA (see chapter IV, section C); (b) set emission standards for air pollutants; (c) prohibit uncontrolled burning and disposal of solid waste and mandate local administration units in coordination with EEAA to designate disposal sites according to specifications set in the executive regulations; (d) regulate and control the transportation and disposal of excavation, construction and demolition wastes; (e) ban the discharge of oil or oily mixtures from ships and offshore oil exploration and production facilities (platforms); (f) require ports and repair docks to be adequately equipped to receive waste, oily mixtures and sludge; (g) ban ships and offshore platforms from discharging and dumping any polluting substances, liquid or solid wastes, garbage and animal carcasses; (h) regulate the discharge of sewage from ships and platforms; (i) require all ports to be adequately equipped to receive wastewater and garbage; (j) prohibit all land-based sources whether commercial, public, tourism, service or industrial from dumping polluting wastes or substances and discharging untreated wastewater anywhere along the shores. Each day of illegal discharge would be considered a separate violation. In all cases discharge is not permitted except at a 500 meters distance from the coastline; (k) strictly control construction within 200 meters of the coast line as well as any activity that might alter the natural coast line; and (I) set deterrent fines and priscin terms for violators. 3.08 Application and enforcement of these rules in the Gulf of Aqaba coastal area, which currently range from poor to non-existent, are discussed in Chapter IV, section E. Relevant International Conventions 3.09 Eight international conventions, to which Egypt is a signatory, are relevant to the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba. In addition, the "Law of the Sea" includes a dispute settlement mechanism for marine pollution which could serve as a framework for the GAEAP: 19 (a) Regional Convention for the Conservation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden Environment (Jeddah Convention, 1982): It aims at protecting the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Aqaba environments. The Protocol concerning Regional Cooperation in Combating Pollution by Oil and other Harmful Substances in Case of Emergency calls for the establishment of a marine pollution emergency response regional center. The Convention was signed by Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Somalia, the Palestinian Authority and Yemen. Israel is not a party to it; (b) International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by Oil (1954): The convention establishes controls on oil discharge into the sea from ships. The Red Sea, including the Gulf of Aqaba, is considered a prohibited zone where special protection applies; (c) International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL, 1973): Through it 1978 Protocol, it identifies the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba as a special area where the discharge of oil and oily residues is prohibited. The Convention has been modified to ban all dumping from ships of all garbage except the biodegradable, organic food wastes. It also requires coastal states to provide reception facilities for ships as well as services like oil and waste disposal facilities; (d) Convention of the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter (London Convention, 1973), regulates the disposal at sea of waste by ships, aircraft's, platforms and other structures into the water; (e) Convention for the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal (Basel Convention 1989): Countries complying with this convention should report in advance the status of the materials carried on board and the countries through which it will be passing; (f) Convention on Biodiversity (Rio, 1992): The objectives of this Convention are the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources by appropriate funding; (g) Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS, Bonn 1979): regulates the protection of species of wild animals migrating across or outside national boundaries by developing cooperative agreements, prohibiting taking of endangered species, conserving habitat, and controlling other adverse factors; and (h) Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES): Complying with this Convention will not allow trade in specimens of (i) species currently threatened with extinction, (ii) species that may become so unless trade is strictly regulated, and (iii) species identified by Egypt as requiring prevention or restricted exploitation, and needing the cooperation of other parties of the Convention. 3.10 The Law of the Sea establishes a dispute settlement mechanism for marine pollution and includes provisions for conservation and utilization of living resources. Its environmental provisions create an umbrella for more specific treaties. The Law of the Sea is sponsored by the United Nations and has been opened for signature since 1982. Since the Law lacks the required number of ratifications, it 20 has yet to be enforced. While Egypt has signed and ratified the treaty, Saudi Arabia has only signed it, and Jordan and Israel have only signed the final act of the treaty. B. Institutional Responsibilities 3.11 There are three principal institutional stakeholders in the Egyptian Gulf of Aqaba coastal area, namely: (a) the local administration - the South Sinai Govemorate (SSG) and the four coastal municipalities; (b) the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), under the Minister of State for Environmental Affairs (MSEA); and (c) the Ministry of Tourism through the Tourism Development Authority (TDA). As seen in par. 2.18, the influence of these institutions is more than sectoral since each has territorial jurisdiction within the Gulf coast area. Bl. T'he Local Administration The Governorate 3.12 The South Sinai Governorate (SSG) created 15 years ago, is one of 26 Govemorates in Egypt. The Governor, appointed by the President, is the chief executive officer of the Governorate and supervises a multi-disciplinary staff of specialists and departments, many of which correspond to central sectoral ministries. The South Sinai Governorate's responsibilities related to environmental protection include: (a) coordination of environmental activities within the Govemorate, monitoring and providing liaison with MSEA; and (b) participating in the EIA process as "Competent Administrative Authority" (CAA) for the areas under municipal jurisdiction (see chapter IV, section C). The organizational structure of the SSG is detailed on Chart 3. 3.13 The Governorate is served by an elected Popular Council, which has responsibility for: economic, social and physical planning; budgeting and accounting; and policy and planning. An Executive Council, appointed by the Governor, includes the heads of each district ("markez') within the Govemorate plus the heads of utility sections. The Executive Council is responsible for implementation of policy and collection of taxes. The Municipalities 3.14 The SSG is divided into 8 districts (markez), three of which are in the Gulf coast area. Within each district, one municipality serves as the central administrative office for the district. The head (mayor) of the city is also the district chief. Within each district, there may be other villages. The three districts along the Gulf coast, identifiecl by the name of the principal city, are Nuweiba, Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh. Taba is considered to be a village within the Nuweiba district. 3.15 Municipal governments are headed by a Mayor, appointed by and subordinate to the Governor and served by an elected Popular Council and an appointed Executive Council, with responsibilities similar to those exercised by the councils at the Governorate. The structure of the municipal staff depends upon the size and scope of activities administered within the city and/or district, but generally will include sections covering planning, engineering and utility services, public relations, etc. Personnel, administration, financial affairs and matters dealing with local councils, committees and conferences are supervised by a municipal Secretary General, who reports to the Mayor. 21 3.16 The Popular Council of the Municipality determines policy, sets budgets, and oversees planning. An Executive Council, comprised of city staff, is charged with executing programs, operation and maintenance of city services. A similar, smaller structure is followed in each village. 3.17 Municipal budgets are set by the central government and by the Governorate. There is little or no opportunity for the municipal authorities to participate in the budget process. Municipal accounting procedures, established in accordance with national laws and regulations, do not provide for cost-center accounting, match costs with associated revenues, or enable effective accountability for performance of the different service sections-!. 3.18 In practice in the Gulf of Aqaba zone, most of the water supply and waste water treatment infrastructure is undersized and/or obsolete, due to the difficulty for the municipalities to timely mobilize the required funding (priority investments for rehabilitation are estimated at a minimum of US$70 million). Utility and infrastructure services are performed under contract by private sector firrns. Because of governmental restraints on staff expansion and unattractive salary schedules, the local governments have difficulty in hiring and retaining qualified staff for these purposes in these relatively high cost resort areas. Even with the use of private contract service delivery, local government budgetary limitations often do not enable the municipalities to fund services at an acceptable level. Environmental Responsibilities of SSG 3.19 Main environmental responsibilities of SSG cover specific provisions of Law 4/1994 and its executives regulations, as well as EIA guidelines published by EEAA, as follows: (a) ETA related responsibilities. The Govemorate being the CAA for urban and tourism development projects within the city limits, is responsible for: (i) requesting and receiving ETA documents prior to licensing of projects and before the start of any construction work; (ii) validating selection project categories (white, gray or black) and ensuring conformity of information submitted with requirements of the Law and the guidelines; (iii) registering EIA documents and submitting them to EEAA for review; and (iv) notifying the developers with he results and mitigation measures of the EIA review and follow up in the field to ensure implementation. (b) Other environmental responsibilities. In addition to the ETA related responsibilities, the Govemorate has the following responsibilities: (i) in coordination with EEAA, take legal actions against establishments violating the environmental Law, such actions could lead to shut down violating establishments; (ii) suspend damaging activities; (iii) demanding compensation to remedy environmental damages; and 9/ A USAID supported project is currently improving water-related services in the Nuweiba municipality. The project includes the introduction of sound management practices, staff training, office equipment and implementation of priority investments for water supply and wastewater treatment. 22 (iv) in coordination withl EEAA, selecting sites for solid water treatment and disposal. In addition, ensuring sound practices for collection and transportation of solid waste. Local Government capacity for implementing environment-related activities 3.20 A small "Environmental Management Unit" (EMU) exists in the SSG structure (see Chart 3). One staff only, already vested with other functions, has been assigned to EMU with environmental responsibilities. EMU is virtually inactive (see Chapter IV, par. 4.22) and will be strengthened under the GAEAP. B2. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) Organization 3.21 In 1997, the Minister of State for Environmental Affairs (MSEA) was appointed. The Minister is the chairman of EEAA Board of Directors 3.22 The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), has been established under the Cabinet of Ministers by Presidential Decree 631 in 1982. EEAA was restructured in 1994 with the Law for Environment (Law 4 / 1994). EEAA was endowed with expanded responsibilities and authorities. The Chief Executive Officer of EEAA is appointed by a Prime Ministerial decree and serves as vice chairman of the Board. 3.23 The agency is organized into four departments (see Chart 1), of which three are of particular relevance to the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba, i.e.: (a) the Environmental Management Sector (EMS) in charge of implementing Law 4/1994, in particular for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) review and the coastal zone management process in the framework of the National Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan (see Annex 2); (b) the Department of Natural Protectorates (DNP), in charge of implementing Law 102/1983 for nature protection; and (c) the Environmental Quality Sector (EQS) in charge of marine water monitoring. 3.24 EEAA has recently adopted nine regional branches, of which only the Greater Cairo one is operational. The Suez branch is to be responsible for the North Sinai Govemorate and the South Sinai branch, to be established in Sharm El Sheikh, for the South Sinai Governorate. The structure of the branches reflects that of EEAA. 3.25 The responsibilities of EEAA, pertinent to the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba coast are as follows: (a) management of the protected areas of Ras Mohammed, Nabq and Abu Galum. In these areas EEAA has full jurisdiction and no activity or construction of any kind can be carried out except with its permission. This function is performed by DNP in accordance with the relevant decree (see par. 3.4 (a)); 23 (b) implementation of the coastal zone management guidelines, through EMS; (c) review and evaluation through EMS of EIA material and documents submitted by the Competent Administrative Authorities for the Gulf of Aqaba coast (the EIA process is described in Chapter IV, Section C); (d) implementation of the Marine Ambient Water Quality Monitoring Program and publishing of the resulting environmental indicators, through EQS; (e) surveillance, patrolling, inspection and enforcement for the provisions of Law 4/1994, in particular concerning: (i) discharging of liquid and/or solid wastes from offshore or land-based sources; (ii) activities that might affect the natural shoreline or construction within the prohibited 200 meter distance from the coastline; and (iii) any practices and/or activities affecting coral reefs and marine life in general in the stretch between Ras Mohammed and Taba; and (f) in coordination with other organizations and authorities, preparation of an Oil Spill Contingency Plan as well as establishing and managing the Oil Spills Combating Centers in Sharm El Sheikh and Nuweiba. 3.26 Currently, EEAA exercises its authority in the Gulf of Aqaba area through DNP staff assigned to the Ras Mohammed National Park and the two Managed Resource Protected Areas. As of today, there is no other EEAA staff in the Gulf area. B3. The Tourism Development Authority (TDA) 3.27 The Tourism Development Authority (TDA) was established under Law 7/1991 concerning governance over state - owned land. This law assigns to TDA management, utilization and allocation authority over "zonese designated for tourism development. Presidential Decree 374/1991 specifies the mandates of TDA in those areas as follows: (a) preparation of development plans and setting priorities for their implementation; (b) preparation, review and evaluation of tourism development programs and projects and monitoring their implementation; (c) execution of infrastructure projects and developing infrastructure framework schemes; and (d) carrying out of preliminary land allocations for tourism development projects to be finally approved by the Prime - Ministerial Tourism Development Committee. 3.28 The TDA is established as an autonomous economic entity under the Minister of Tourism and has the right to: (a) retain revenues from land allocation; (b) charge for assessment and monitoring of projects; 24 (c) recover the cost of utilities and services rendered to beneficiaries (investors); (d) borrow from national and international financial institutions; (e) accept grants from national and international donors; and (f) establish branches in Govemorates. 3.29 TDA has been assigned the responsibility over all the territory along the Gulf of Aqaba coast lying outside the boundaries of the municipalities and the core protected areas. In addition to promoting and managing tourism development in these areas, TDA has the responsibility for overseeing basic infrastructure and environmental services of water supply, wastewater and solid waste management. Moreover, for all projects and activities (hotels, infrastructure projects, etc.) in these areas, TDA is the competent administrative authority (CAA) in implementing the EIA process (see Chapter IV). 3.30 At the present time, governance of the TDA areas in the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone is handled remotely from the agency headquarters in Cairo. A branch office has been established in the Gulf coast in October 1997. It is staffed with one person. As part of the strengthening and decentralization process supported by the GAEAP, TDA branch office will take most of the CAA responsibilities in coordination with SS-RBO. B4. Other Public Agencies 3.31 The main government agencies which have authority and responsibility in the Gulf of Aqaba area, include: (a) the Ministry of Electricity and the Ministry of Public Enterprises, which have overlapping responsibilities for electric power supply; (b) the Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities (MOHUUC), which, through the General Office of Physical Planning (GOPP) and the Sinai Reconstruction Authority (SRA) has responsibility for land use, physical and structural planning and implementation of planned construction. SRA also maintains and operates some facilities. A unit of MOHUUC sets drinking water and wastewater treatment standards; (c) the Ministry of Transportation and Communications - roads, ports, airports and telecommunication services; (d) the Ministry of Public Works and Water Resources (MOPWWR) oversees ground water use, flood protection, and water supply works; (e) the Ministry of Defense: the military has a presence in the region and is also operating the water pipeline from El Tur to Sharm El Sheikh; and (f) the Social Fund for Development (SFD) attached to the Prime Ministry, under the umbrella of UNDP with cotinancing from EU, funds activities that generate employment. SFD has a regional office in SSG and has funded in SSG public works, drainage, and small- scale agricultural development projects totaling US$5 million. 25 B5. National Committee for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) 3.32 The EEAA was given specifically the authority to "participate with the concerned agencies and ministries in the preparation of a National Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan for the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea coasts". 3.33 With this mandate the EEAA has initiated the coordination of ICZM planning, in which the first step was to establish the National Committee for ICZM. Based on the Law of the Environment No 4 for the year 1994 and its executive regulations, the Ministerial Decree constituting the establishment of the National committee for ICZM was issued in 1994 and amended in 1996. The secretariat of this Committee for ICZM was issued in 1994 and Environment Management Sector of the EEAA including the department of Coastal and Marine Zones Management and the divisions of the Mediterranean and the Red Sea Coasts were established (see diagrams in Annex 2). The function of the Committee is not only to draw-up a consistent policy and strategy for future development, but also to resolve conflicts between users interests. 3.34 The National Committee for ICZM comprises top rank representatives of all concerned ministries. According to decree no. 200/96, sixteen members are participating which represent: - Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (2 members) - Ministry of Public Works and Water Resources (1 member) - Ministry of Housing (2 members) - Ministry of Agriculture (1 member) - Ministry of Maritime Transportation (1 member) - Ministry of Planning (1 member) - Ministry of Scientific Research and Technology (1 member) - Ministry of Defense (1 member) - Ministry of Local Government (1 member) - Ministry of Electricity and Energy (1 member) - National Water Research Center representative (1 member) - NGO representatives (2 members) 3.35 The assignments of the National Committee for ICZM are as follows - To coordinate all coastal activities between the competent authorities towards Integrated Coastal Zone Management through the drafting, setting and approval of general guidelines for all activities, including Environmental Impact Assessment studies. 26 To make sure that all land use plans and development activities in the coastal zone areas take into account contingency arrangements'. To harmonize between the proposed development activity and the carrying capacity of the ecosystem towards a sustainable use of available resources. To endure active participation in drafting and preparing the ICZM Plan. To ensure efficient implementation of the commitments of the Egyptian Government to the Regional and International Conventions concerning the protection of marine environment and coastal areas. - To approve programs and plans aiming at restoring and rehabilitating coastal ecosystems which suffer from enviromnental stress, damage and deterioration. - To coordinate and specify mandates for different authorities in the coastal area. - To approve national arrangements related to the protection of the environment in the coastal areas and contingency plans. - To study and evaluate all major projects to be executed in the coastal zone, especially projects which may lead to conflict of interest between ministries or other governmental bodies while reaching a final decision. - To look at any activities or projects relevant to ICZM. 3.36 Clearly, institutional arrangements are required at different administrative levels (national, regional, local) for taking responsibility for ICZM. However, the national level and regional levels were established B6. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) 3.37 There are several environmental NGOs active in the Gulf of Aqaba, mainly including: (a) Community and Institutional Development (CID); and (b) the Friends of the Environment Association, Alexandria. B7. Private Sector 3.38 The private sector is investing iin environmental related infrastructure (e.g., water supply, wastewater treatment and recycling) in TDA areas as well as in some of the Municipalities (Chapter II, section C). Additional investments in environmental-related infrastructure, including solid waste, is promoted through the GAEAP. These investments will reduce Government expenditures. Two associations sponsored by the private sector pursue environmental goals: the Sinai Hotels and Diving Clubs and the Egyptian Hotel Association. 27 IV. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MANAGEMENT A. The Setting for Managing Environmental Protection in the Gulf of Aqaba 4.1 The Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone is currently facing growing environmental threats resulting from: (a) the booming development of the tourism sector, generating ecologically-aggressive tourist activities and pollution due to insufficient sanitation systems and uncontrolled construction activities; and (b) maritime activities responsible for water pollution from oil spills and shipboard wastes. Unless the environmental threats are significantly reduced, serious damages can occur to the unique and fragile coral reefs and desert ecosystems, the major asset for the tourism industry. The degradation of the coastal land supporting many other tourist activities is an issue as well. If unaddressed, these threats could curtail the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry, the main activity of the Gulf of Aqaba coastal region (see Chapter II). 4.2 The proposed environmental protection of the Aqaba coast is based on the national environmental strategies, policies and legal instruments. The legal framework is in place, notably Laws 102/83 and 4/94, under which EEAA is responsible for coordinating environmental protection. Two major achievements of relevance for the Gulf of Aqaba have been the protection of three core marine areas and the entire coastline, and the establishment of the legal framework for Environmental Impact Assessment (see Chapter III). 4.3 In the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone, private investors are developing world class hotels and associated facilities at an accelerated pace, thus placing an unprecedented pressure on the central and local government regulators and developers. 4.4 Chapter IV reviews the performance of the existing stakeholders in managing environmental protection, identifies the outstanding issues and proposes options for improvement though the GAEAP to coordinate environmental protection. Specifically the review focus on critical areas for environmental protection, including: (a) land allocation for tourism investment; (b) environmental impact assessment; (c) management of protected areas; (d) control of tourist activities; (e) control of pollution from land based and marine sources; and (f) monitoring and evaluation of environmental deterioration. B. Land Allocation for Tourism Development BL. Areas under TDA Jurisdiction 4.5 Areas located outside the boundaries of the designated Protected Areas and outside the territory of the four municipalities have been assigned to TDA for tourism development. These areas occupy an aggregate 89 km of the 260 km terrestrial coastl°' (see Chapter II, par. 3.3). Under Law 7/1991, TDA is the principal governmental authority with broad powers (see Chapter III, section B3). TDA has divided the Gulf of Aqaba tourist zone into four tourist sectors. The sectors have been further subdivided into a total of 10 tourist centers, with a total of 93 separate projects. LOI The terrestrial coast refers to areas landward from the highest equinox tide line 28 4.6 For hotel projects in its area of jurisdiction, TDA has adopted land-use and development standards for tourism facility construction to be applied by the private investors. These standards are set out in the table below. A cursory review of these standards suggests that an investor attempting to maximize the use of a site would have difficulty in meeting the setback requirements of Law 4/1994 and devising an economically-feasible development plan. Table 4.1: TDA Standards for Resort Land-Use Planning Item ; Minirnum Resort Site Area (m2) 60,000 50,000 4,0 Maxirnurn Built-up Area (%) 1 5 14 13 Minimum Length of the Beach front (m) 200 200 200 Minimnum Depth of the site Perpendicular to the Beach(m) 300 250 200 Minimum Beach Setback (m) 200 Max. Number of GuestsNisitors per Lineal Meter of Beach 3 4 5 Minimum Site Area per Guest (m2) 200 170 150 Minimum Car Parking Area per Room - - - Number of Car Parking Space per Room (m2) 1 1/2 1/3 Minimum Beach Area per person (m2) 30 20 15 Minimum Services Area per person (m2) 10 10 10 Minimum Green and Open Space Area (m 2/person) 40 35 30 Max. Percentage of the Site in Roads/Pedestrian Areas(%) 25 20 15 Minimum Built-up Area per Guest (m 2) I I 9 7 Source: TDA 4.7 In addition to hotel resorts, each tourism center includes supporting facilities (shopping area, cafeterias, restaurants, diving centers, etc.) and, more importantly, utility projects to be financed and operated by private investors for water desalination, waste water treatment and garbage collection and disposal. Construction and operation standards of the utility projects are set by TDA as a condition for approval of the EIA. Such standards are said to be in line with the current international standards in particular for water quality. 4.8 Compliance with the TDA standards is part of the EIA process and is discussed in the following section. As seen above, governance of the TDA areas is handled remotely from the agency headquarters in Cairo. A branch office, staffed with one person, has been established in the Gulf coast in October 1997. B2. Areas under Municipal Jurisdiction 4.9 Municipalities guidelines for allocating the land under their jurisdiction are unclear, apart from ensuring compliance with the legal obligation for the investor to submit an EIA document. 29 C. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Process Cl. Procedures and Responsibilities 4.10 Law 4/1994 requires the licensing authorities - so called "Competent Administrative Authorities" (CAAs) to undertake an assessment of any project having a potential adverse impact on the environment. The law mandates EEAA, in coordination with the CAAs, to set the concept and guidelines for the EIA process and requires the CAA to submit the ETA to EEAA for review and approval. 4.11 According to the guidelines for Egyptian ETA issued by EEAA under requirement of Law 4/1994, developers prepare and submit EIA material/documentation to the CAA before the start of any construction work. Projects are classified into three categories based on their anticipated impact on the environment. For each category, the EIA material to submit is as follows: * White List projects: projects with minor environmental impact and for which only a simple "Environmental Screening Form" is needed; * Gray List projects: projects which may result in significant environmental impact for which a detailed "Environmental Screening Form" and possibly a partial ("scoped") are required; and * Black List projects: projects presenting the risk of a major adverse impact on the environment, for which a full-fledged EIA study is needed. In addition, any project to be located within the 200-meter zone from the coastline (the "setback) requires a full ETA. 4.12 In the Gulf of Aqaba, there are three licensing authorities (CAAs), for tourism related activities, i.e.: * the Governorate, for urban development projects and tourism resorts within the city limits; * the TDA for all tourism development projects and related activities, including infrastructure, outside the city limits and protected areas; and * the EEAA, specifically the DNP, for all protected areas, in accordance with Law 102/1983 and Prime Ministerial decree 264/1964. 4.13 The CAA is the interface between the developers and the EEAA and its responsibilities in the ETA process mainly include (a) validating the selected project category; and (b) ensuring conformity of the infornation submitted with the requirements of Law 4/1994 and EIA guidelines. 4.14 Within EEAA and in accordance with its organizational structure approved by the Government, the Environmental Management Sector (EMS), utilizing its staff and accredited reviewers, is to evaluate each ETA document and, within 60 days following their submission by the relevant CAA, to send it back to the CAA with EEAA opinion and prescription of mitigation measures. 4.15 The CAA subsequently is to notify the developer and to follow-up to ensure implementation of the prescribed mitigation measures. The developer has the right to appeal to the "Permanent Appeals Committee", chaired by a counselor to the State Council and comprising representatives from EEAA and TDA in addition to the developer and three experts. 30 4.16 Law 4/1994 requires that the developer maintain a self-monitoring record of the environmental performance and impact of the project after implementation. EEAA is mandated with the follow-up and annual inspection of these records to ensure compliance with standards and requirements of the legislation, in general, and EIA mitigation measures, in particular. In case of violation, the EEAA informs the CAA which, in turn, requires the owner to take appropriate measures within 60 days. Failure to comply could result in shutting down the facility, suspending the violating activity, and/or filing a lawsuit for compensation. C2. Evaluation of the EIA Process 4.17 Currently, about 60 EIA documents (of which an estimated 35% for tourism projects) are received each month at EEAA for review. However, the EIA is a relatively new instrument in Egypt and, until now, its processing has been incompletely performed countrywide, with serious deficiencies throughout the whole process. Currentl,y, an unrecorded but significant percentage of projects start implementation with complete disregard of the EIA requirements. Due to lack of resource and expertise, some CAAs do not fulfill their function and directly send developers to EEAA. Developers also complain that the delays to receive notification of EIA approval are unduly long. 4.18 About 15% of the EIA are associated with black projects, another 35% with gray projects and 50% with white projects. A high proportion of the EIA studies submitted to EEAA is of a poor quality and does not allow any serious assessment. Currently 30% of the EIA are returned to the CAAs by EEAA. A number of bureaucratic deficiencies adversely impact on the EIA process. As an example, EEAA (EMS) never receives copy of the permit granted by the CAA at the end of the process, making impossible any further inspection to verify that requirements stated in permit and/or in the EEAA opinion have been actually implemented. Furthermore, there is no inspection or enforcement system in EEAA apart from rangers associated with protected areas. 4.19 On the other hand, developers face difficulties in identifying and contracting qualified consultants to carry out EIA studies at a reasonable price. The shortage of expertise applies at al levels from consulting firms to universities and research centers. When competent, EIA experts charge unduly high rates. 4.20 The lack and/or inaccessibility of relevant information seriously affects the quality of EIA and their value as a support of investment decision. The low quality of data produced by environmental laboratories adds up to the unreliability of the EIA studies. C3. The Case of the Gulf of Aqaba 4.21 The shortage of experienced staff to review ETA documents affects in a different manner the three involved CAAs, i.e. TDA, EEAA-D)NP, and the Local Administration. In view of the limited number of development projects in the protected areas, DNP has never encountered a significant adverse impact on the nature protection within the Park limits nor it is expected to have one in the future. With the occasional assistance of foreign expertis, TDA has been able until now to properly manage its CAA function despite the reduced number of its experienced staff. However, with the expected acceleration of the tourism investments in the forthcoming years, an increase of TDA capacity for CAA activities is necessary for the next ten years. .4.22 As for the Local Administration, its capacity to handle environment matters, in general, and the EIA process, in particular, is very limited. The Environmental Management Unit (EMU) in SSG is 31 grossly understaffed, poorly equipped and insufficiently funded, with virtually no experience in EIA (see Chapter III, par. 3.19). Building SSG environmental capacity for CAA activities is a critical priority in view of the growing urgency to address the pollution issues in the areas under municipal jurisdiction. 4.23 For EIA review, EEAA is assisted by donor-supported projects-N which are delivering guidelines, case studies and training to EIA staff and selected private consultants. However, overall capacity to implement the EIA review upon transmission of the documentation by the CAAs is still insufficient. External reviewers appointed to evaluate the EIA are few in number with little practical experience. In view of the acceleration of the tourism investments in the Gulf of Aqaba, the strengthening of EEAA capacity is urgently required. 4.24 In summary, the EIA process is not adequately implemented due to the following deficiencies: (a) the number of trained and experienced government staff, external reviewers and private consultants able to manage the increasing flow of incoming EIA is insufficient; (b) the administration of the EIA process is inadequate with the absence of a proper filing and recording system, overlong delays, etc. (c) on-site enforcement capabilities to guaranty that no project would start without fulfilling the EIA requirement is almost absent; (d) on-site inspection capabilities to ensure compliance with the EIA and other legal requirements do not exist; and (e) the laboratory support is inadequate. C4. Options for Improvement 4.25 During the next ten years, hotel capacity on the Aqaba coast is planned to increase from 15,000 beds currently to nearly 60,000 beds in 2002 and over 90,000 by 2017 (see Chapter II). During this period, complying with EIA regulations will be of crucial importance as a preventive measure to ensure conservation of marine and land biodiversity. Hence, one of the main contributions of the GAEAP will be the improvement of the ETA process on the Aqaba coast. The strengthening of this capacity is temporary and envisaged to be enforced over the next ten years. Once the coast is entirely built up, the EIA function should dwindle and the focus will then be on increased monitoring. 4.26 Improving the EIA process in the Aqaba coast would require the three following measures: (a) increasing the number and qualification of staff assigned to the two overloaded CAAs - TDA and SSG - for EIA screening and to EEAA/EMS for EIA review; (b) training all public and private players involved in the EIA process, including TDA, SSG, EEAA consultants and reviewers, as well as investors, NGOs, etc.; and (c) decentralizing part of the EIA process to the Aqaba coast, including the EIA review, enforcement and monitoring. GAEAP role in improving the implementation of the EIA process is detailed in Chapter VI. JV The DANIDA-funded "Organization Support Program" supporting the Environmental Management Sector and the DflD (previously ODA)-funded "Support for Environmental Assessment and Managemenf' 32 D. Management of the Protected Areas 4.27 The South Sinai Protected Sector covers the whole marine environment along the 260 km nearshore and intertidal zones of the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. It includes three core protected areas: the Ras Mohammed National Park and the Nabq and Abu Galum Managed Resource Protected Areas, and the coral reef of the entire coastline (see definition of the protected areas in Chapter III, par. 3.3). In addition, the Saint Katherine and Taba protectorates covering desert areas contiguous to the coastal zone have also been established in the South Sinai. Dl. Achievements of the Department of Natural Protectorates 4.28 The EEAA Department of Protected Areas (EEAAIDNP) exercises authority over, and manages the three core protected areas and the entire coast line seaward of the highest high water line. Adequate legal authority has been established under Law 102/1983 and its decrees for management, monitoring and environmental enforcement within the designated protected areas. In particular, DNP is responsible for EEAA participation in implementing the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biodiversity Conservation. 4.29 The DNP, supported by grants from EU (par. 4.76), has completed preliminary management plans for the three protected areas, and is actively providing on-site management, monitoring and enforcement within their boundaries. A visitor center and laboratory have been constructed at Ras Mohammed and there is active patrolling of the land and water areas within the protected area. Current activities in Ras Mohammed include educational and awareness programs, mooring buoys for dive boats, designation of reef access points, solicl waste collection, and regular patrolling and monitoring of activities. These appear to be adequate for the present level of visitation. There is concern, however, that increased activity by dive boats and snorkelers may exceed the sustainable level of reef access and existing staff capability for monitoring and enforcement. 4.30 The principal feature of Abu Galum is the undisturbed and highly diverse coral reef. Abu Galum is being endangered through the constnrction of access to hotel compounds in its vicinity. Current management practices include regulation of the native Bedouin fishing along the reef, marking of reef access points and limitation of desert access to designated trails. A visitor center at the northern boundary of the area will provide infornation and environmental educational programs. As with the other areas, there is concern with the ability of DNP and the local Bedouin tribes to cope adequately with increased tourist activity. At Abu Galum, also, there is a problem with waste floating ashore from the open Gulf. 4.31 In the developed municipal areas, EEAA/DNP has assisted tourist facilities with the design and construction of floating docks and swirm platforms, the establishment of underwater walkways, and awareness programs, all intended to minimize impact on the close-in reefs. DNP has also established regulations limiting fish feeding and bottom fishing - practices that can damnage the reef. 4.32 Despite the existence of high quality coral reefs north of Nuweiba, patrolling of the reef by DNP is difficult and less frequent (on a weekly basis) because of distance from Ras Mohammed and staff limitations. This presents a minimal current problem, because activity in this area is limited, but with increased visitation and construction of the new TDA projects, the potential for adverse impact from tourist activity will increase significantly. There appears to be adequate legal authority for enforcement jurisdiction, but an enhancement of enforcement presence will be necessary as the area is developed. The key issues will be related to access to and through the coral reef, and protection of the natural 33 shoreline. The terrain in this area north of the protected areas is such that adverse impacts to the desert ecosystems will be self-limiting. 4.33 With the Ras Mohammed National Park, EEAA/DNP has successfully implemented Government policy to preserve the unique ecosystems of the Gulf of Aqaba through a combination of measures including regulation, research and public education. The Park has become an international attraction and contributes to the high performance of the tourism industry in the Gulf coast. As of today, the Park management has kept pace with minimizing the impacts on the coral reef of the growing number of visitors. 4.34 In view of the intensive and rapid development of high capacity hotels along the coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, a number of complementary managerial activities will have to be implemented through the GAEAP (see Chapter VI) to sustain the remarkable protection achieved so far in the three core protected areas. The equipment and staffing of the Nabq and Abu Galum protected areas should be completed immediately to curtail ongoing environmental deterioration and reduce the pressure of visitors on the Ras Mohammed National Park. In view of the presence of significant Bedouin communities, EEAA will have the additional responsibility to define and introduce a strategy for integrating further native populations in the process of regional development. As for the "Adjacent Areas", the priority would be for the Government to pass the appropriate legislation protecting the areas and defining the EEAA responsibilities for nature protection. Finally, increased protection of the coral reef is proposed for implementation through the GAEAP. The core protected areas are described in the following paragraphs. D2. Description of the Core Protected Areas Ras Mohammed National Park 4.35 The Ras Mohammed National Park was declared a National (marine) Park by Prime Ministerial Decree No.1068, adjusted by Prime Ministerial Decree No.2035 in 1996. It incorporates an area of 480 km2, expanded from an original area of 97 km2, and extends 10-15 km into the Gulf encompassing the Strait of Tiran and Sanafir islands. The Park is located at the meeting point between the Gulfs of Aqaba and Suez in the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. It includes coral reefs, desert ecosystems, mangroves and endemic flora and fish species and is also an important spot for migratory soaring birds. 4.36 The Ras Mohammed National Park is of global importance due to the diversity and number of coral and fish species and its mangroves. Its coral reefs are rated amongst the world's best. 4.37 The reef table of Ras Mohammed area is very narrow with a seaward wall that vanishes into deep waters at 70m depth. There is a 50m high rock on the beach beyond which is a square-shaped lagoon. This National Park is of international importance and is rated among the best in the world as a result of the existence of more than 150 species of corals, various species of fish including sharks, barracuda's, tunas and more in addition to many other resources. Coral reefs are affected by temperature changes, light, salinity, sedimentation, and pollutants in the water and divers. The flora in Ras Mohammed is relatively poor in terms of plant cover and diversity of species. Only 80 species of flowering plants have been recorded. There is a wide range of soil salinity and poor organic carbon content, and a sandy texture. 4.38 A preliminary management plan has been established and implemented including initiation of a visitors center, field research, monitoring laboratory and the necessary infrastructure, in addition to establishing an organizational structure for the proper environmental management of the park. Initial 34 phases include the establishment of baseline data and assessment of diver impacts on the reefs, as well as building a visitors center and a campsite, setting up buoys for anchoring boats, a research laboratory, and a solid waste collection program. 4.39 The Park's management team and field rangers perform the following activities: (a) education and environmental awareness programs for the visitors through personal meetings and dissemination of information; (b) environmental monitoring; (c) insurance and safeguarding of natural resources and visitors; (d) scientific research; (e) cleaning and beautification of the Park and pollution control; and (f) protection of the coral reefs. 4.40 The Park is a major tourism and recreational attraction worldwide thereby contributing to economic development and increasing the GNP. The development plan for the Ras Mohammed aims at striking a balance between natural resource protection from depletion and destruction, and income generation. The attraction of the Park is reflected in significant visitation and revenues: in 1996, a total of 94,750 visitors passed the Park gate, of which 93% non-Egyptians, spending LE 1,747,829 (US$50,000) in entrance fees. In 1997, due to increasing visitation at the Park and the start of operations at Nabq Resource Managed Area, the total[ number of visitors is expected to reach 120,000 and entrance fees estimated at more than LE 2,000,000. DNP direct operating costs (excluding depreciation and development costs) for the Ras Mohamnmed National Park administration amounted to LE 397,800, in 1996, i.e. 23% of revenues from entrance ifees, thus confirmning the financial sustainability of the Gulf of Aqaba core protected areas. Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area 4.41 The Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area is located 35 km North of Sharm El Sheikh. Nabq was declared a Natural Protectorate in 1992 by Prime Ministerial Decree No. 1511. This area has a variety of marine and land ecosystems in an area of 600 kIn2, and also supports a small native population (Bedouins) who is participating in management and conservation efforts. The presence of landmines, currently being removed, has preserved the area from anthropogenic use. 4.42 The Nabq Protected area includes coral reefs, sea grass beds, and the most northerly mangroves in the Red Sea/Indian Ocean complex at the mouth of the Wadi Kid which have adapted to the salinity of the water and act as a stabilizing body and extension to shorelines. The mangroves also attract a large number of birds, invertebrates and fish species. In addition, there are wetlands and dunes at the Mouth of Wadi Kid, covered by stabilizing vegetation, desert ecosystems, brackish water oasis and desert/mountain ecosystems. There is a much wider range of habitat types as compared with those of Ras Mohammed. Coastal hypersaline sabkhas, wadi beds, mountainsides, sand dunes and fresh water springs are among the habitat type that have been recorded. The flora is also much richer in terms of cover and number of genera and species (133 have been recorded) and there are 6 species found in Nabq only. The soil is alkaline with a total absence of gravel in some sites and, similar to Ras Mohammed, it has a poor organic content. From a total of 8 species of marine plants found in the Red Sea, 6 belong to Nabq area, which indicates high primary production in the marine environment and high diversity in animal life of this area. The desert ecosystem in this area is very fragile and communities such as Arak twigs have already been destroyed. The dune system also includes a variety of mammals, reptiles and insects. The coastline is made up of a long shallow bay bordered to the North and South by mangroves; it then extends into a shallow reef table about 60 rn offshore. 4.43 Among the major attractions of this area, in addition to diving and other marine activities, are the desert safaris and animal and bird watching. Nabq represents an important cultural setting for the 35 Bedouin tribes who live there. The wealth of their knowledge of the ecosystems has been the basis for EEAA/DNP area management strategies. An interpretive visitor center is to open in 1998. The Abu Galum Managed Resource Protected Area 4.44 Abu Galum was declared a protected area under the same Prime Minister Decree as that of Nabq No.1551 for 1992, adjusted by Prime Ministerial Decree No.33 in 1996. It covers 400 km2 area of land of unique coastal and mountain ecosystems including narrow valleys (wadis), fresh water springs, coastal sand dunes, gravel alluvial fans, raised fossil coral reefs and saline sabkha. The shoreline is suitable for beach activities with rich coral reefs and diversified fauna. There are also high rocky mountains with deep wadis and rich flora. As many as 165 species of flowering plants have been recorded, 47 of which have not been found in the other two protectorates. The number of species found here is much higher than in the two other protectorates. The soil of this area is strongly alkaline, with a very low percentage of organic carbon and a sandy to gravely texture. There are undisturbed coral reefs with high diversities of coral reef fish and associated flora and fauna. The topography though is similar to that of Ras Mohammed with many fossil coral. The reef is parallel to the shore and is 6-8m deep. 4.45 There is an active Bedouin artisan fishery at Abu Galum relying on the rich reefs. Net fishing is currently being regulated by EEAA/DNP to help mitigate the adverse impacts that lead to deterioration of the reefs. Management plans envision a visitor center, incorporating a small audio-visual theater and displays of flora and fauna of the area. In addition, information on dive sites and dangerous areas will be provided. Adjacent Areas 4.46 A ministerial decree to identify the adjacent areas surrounding Ras Mohammed, Nabq and Abu Galum has yet to be adopted. 4.47 A small area that separates the two multiple use management areas, Nabq and Abu Galum includes the seaside resort town of Dahab. Some of the damage to natural resources has reached an irreversible stage as a result of local population activities, fishing and tourist activities and therefore needs immediate attention to avoid further damage. 4.48 The northern Gulf coast between Abu Galum and Taba is the richest part of the Gulf of Aqaba in terms of flora with 72 species recorded at Wadi Watir. The intense traffic in this area through the Nuweiba-Suez road, which is the main terrestrial link between Egypt and Saudi Arabia via Jordan, is estimated to have adverse effects on the environment. The Taba Protected Area 4.49 The Taba Protected Area, declared by Prime Ministerial decree no. 316 of January 27, 1998, will be an integrated component of he South Sinai network of protectorates. Its boundaries were defined after detailed surveys by EEAA. The area, which covers about 3,000 km2, is of prime importance for tourism as many of the South Sinai attractions are situated within. Extensive unregulated use of its resources has led, in the most visited sites, to degradation of the ecology and the scenic value and defacement of the historic monuments. The aim of the Taba protected area is to preserve the beauty and ecology of the area, as well as the value of the investments along the coast. 36 4.50 The Taba Protected Area has rich and varied fauna and flora. The mammal fauna, which consists of 25 species, includes such rare species as the endemic Sinai leopard (Panthera pardus jarvisi), which, unless already extinct, only occurs in this area. It is also likely that the Caracal (desert lynx, Caracal caracal) occur in small numbers. Other important mammal species are gazelle (Gazella dorcas), Nubian ibex (Capra ibex nubiana) and hyrax (Procavia capensis syriaca). The avifauna consists of about 50 breeding species. There are confirmed breeding records of the Black Eagle (Aquila verreauxi), near Taba, and, possibly, the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). Other rare birds are the Sooty Falcon (Falco concolor), Bruce's Scops Owl (Otus scops brucei) and the Cyprus Warbler. The mountain areas are home to Egyptian vultures (Neophron percnopterus), Griffon vulture (Gypsfulvus) and, possibly, the rare Lammergeyer (Gypaetus barbatus). The north-western section possibly still harbors the valuable Houbara Bustard. About a quarter of Egypt's reptile species also occur within the area (24 species). It is home of two endemic species, the Sinai Banded Snake (Coluber sinai) and Hogstraal's Cat Snake (Telescopus hogstraali). 4.51 The flora is rich with possibly as, much as 480 species, among them many rare and vulnerable. Endemism is well developed, with between 28 and 36 endemic species of plants. Specialties of the new Protected Area are the Pistachio (Pistacia kinjuk) and Zygophyllum dimosum. 4.52 The Protected Area is adjacent !to and a continuation of the South Sinai massif, which is an isolated mountain region characterized by a strong fracturing, a network of wadis and an arid climate. It includes samples of most geological zones of he South Sinai. It consists mainly of a sandstone area of primarily Mesozoic age, which includes the Nubian sandstone and marine sandstone of upper Cretaceous/lower Cenozoic age. The northwest of the Protected Area includes the Precambrian igneous basement. 4.53 There are few permanent watercourses in the area, most wadis containing only water after rains when they may carry flash floods or only slight trickles of water. Short permanent streams are found in Wadi Watir at Ain Furtaga, and at Ain Umm Ahmed. Therefore, the Protected Area is in the largest part unsuitable for agriculture due to low or absent groundwater resource and he almost total absence of surface water. Little conflict in land use planning is therefore to be expected. Soils are poorly developed and scarce. This is a result of the steep relief of the mountains and the instability of the alluvium in the wadi beds. 4.54 In addition to small scale traditional activities of the Bedouins through the entire area, the chief economic activity is tourism-related. Tourism is expected to become the major source of income of the population of the Protected Area. At resent, main economic activities include agriculture, livestock, quarrying and tourism. Saint Katherine Protectorate 4.55 In addition to the four core protected areas in the immediate Egyptian coastal zone of the Gulf of Aqaba, the Government of Egypt has established the Saint Katherine Protectorate. 4.56 Background. The Saint Katherine Protectorate includes about 4,300 km2 of high desert and mountain ecosystems in the central South Sinai. Within the boundaries of the Protectorate are significant historic, cultural and religious features, as well as considerable wildlife and fauna diversity. The Monastery of Saint Katherine and the biiblical sites associated with it attract a large tourist visitation (140,000 visitors in 1996). Management of the Saint Katherine Protectorate by the Department of Natural Protectorates, EEAA, initiated in 1996, involves different challenges than is the case with the coastal protectorates. Management must integrate consideration of the interests of the local village 37 municipality, the majority Bedouin population, the Monastery and the tourist activity, with the objective of protecting natural and archeological resources within a very large area. 4.57 Geography. The boundaries of the Saint Katherine Protectorate extend along the inland side of the coastal road north from near the boundary of Ras Mohammed National Park to above Dahab along the boundary of the Abu Galum Protected Area, thence westward across the high desert to past the Feiran Oasis, and southeasterly through the mountains to the road adjacent to Ras Mohammed. Within the 4,300 km2 area lie the highest mountains in Egypt, Mount Sinai and Mount Saint Katherine, and vast high desert valleys surrounded by granite and basalt mountains. 4.58 Ecosystems. The high altitude and relatively higher rainfall support a very diversified plant ecosystem (representing 40 % of the Egyptian flora and including 20 endemic species) which in turn support a number of animal species, including ibex, gazelle, hyena, wolf and rock hyrax; numerous lizards and snakes; and a variety of bird species, many of which are rare or endangered. The granite rock forms have attracted small but occasionally intrusive quarrying activity; some of the oasis and wadis support palms. 4.59 Population. Most of the area of the Protectorate is sparsely populated; the major population center being the town of Saint Katherine with its majority (75%) Bedouin population. Seven Bedouin tribes live in and around the Protectorate and comprise the largest population of Bedouin in the South Sinai. Maintaining the health and safety of the Bedouin and assisting them in developing alternative economic activities while preserving their cultural traditions in the face of tourist visitation and non- indigenous population growth poses a major challenge to management of the Protectorate. 4.60 Religious and historic factors. The Monastery of Saint Katherine, founded in the 6th Century AD, is a congregation of the Greek Orthodox Church, and is the oldest Christian monastery in continuous existence. The Monastery is successor to numerous earlier Christian congregations and churches established in the shadow of Mount Sinai, the biblical site of God's revelation to Moses. The Monastery is the depository of the largest collection of Christian literature and historical documents other than that of the Vatican. The Monastery, Mount Sinai and the religious significance of the area attract a large number of day and overnight tourist visitation, including bus tour groups from Israel and Cairo. Other evidence of earlier populations can be found in extensive archeological sites and rock carvings scattered elsewhere in the Protectorate. 4.61 Management challenges and achievements: (a) the continued and growing pressure from planned tourism investment and population growth in the South Sinai poses significant challenges for the Saint Katherine Protectorate. The high desert and mountain ecosystems are sensitive to anthropogenic impact; the touristic attractions of the Monastery and Mount Sinai have limited capacity to absorb significantly increased visitation; and the quality of the tourist business, characterized by day visits and one-day overnights, is less economically attractive; (b) current management has successfully negotiated changes in the municipal development plan, which will assist in maintaining the character of the village, and will also help in preserving the most important visual approaches to the Monastery and village. Management has also initiated drafts of appropriate publications, including hiking guides, and has developed plans for alternative visitation sites throughout the Protectorate area in an effort to diversify the attraction and reduce concentration of visitation. An excellent signage and logo program has been developed, and incorporated into a program involving local Bedouin artisans in sign making; 38 (c) Bedouin support programs in primary health care, sanitation, veterinary support, traditional craft making and income generating activities are being initiated; and (d) the Saint Katherine management programs offer examples of imaginative practices that might be usefully replicated in other protectorate operations. E. Control of Tourist Activities 4.62 Tourist activities place a major threat on the desert and marine ecosystems outside the core protected areas (see Chap 2, section D2) through increased traffic and unmonitored boating, diving and safari activities. Regulating such activities falls under the responsibility of EEAA/DNP through its staff located in the Ras Mohammed National Park. 4.63 In the municipal areas developed for tourism, DNP has assisted with the design and construction of floating docks and swim platforms, establishment of underwater walkways, and implementation of awareness programs, all intended to minimize impact on the close-in reefs. DNP has also established regulations limiting fish feeding and bottom fishing - practices that can damage the reef. 4.64 Despite the existence of high quality coral reefs north of Nuweiba, patrolling of those reefs by DNP is less frequent because of distance from Ras Mohammed and staff limitations. This is currently a minor problem because tourist activity in this area is limited, but with increased visitation and construction of new resorts, the potential for coral damage will increase significantly. There appears to be adequate legal authority for enforcement jurisdiction but an enhancement of enforcement presence will be necessary as the area develops. 'rhe key issues will be related to access to, and through the coral reef, and protection of the natural shoreline. The terrain in this area north of the protected areas is such that adverse impacts to the desert ecosystems will be self-limiting. 4.65 Tourist terrestrial activities, In particular off-track driving which represents the main environmental threat, have been regulated within the core protected areas. However, enforcement of such regulations needs to be extended to non-core areas. Again, patrolling of the coastal desert requires additional resources. Options for Remedial Action 4.66 Existing and new tourism projects must be carefully monitored during and after construction to minimize and/or mitigate any impacts to the shoreline and reef. Staff enhancements to provide for advisory assistance to developers in designing beach/reef access and safari routes as well as increased capacity for monitoring and enforcement should be programmed. 4.67 Environmental awareness programs for tourists and tourism operators (diving centers, safari guides) should be designed and implemented by DNP. 4.68 A watercraft licensing and registration program should apply to all vessels operating in the near- shore waters of the Gulf. 39 F. Control of Land-based Pollution 4.69 Land-based pollution results from insufficiently monitored urban development in the areas under municipal jurisdiction and tourism resorts in the areas under TDA jurisdiction (see Chapter H, section D). The causes for pollution are: release of poorly treated wastewater, presence of uncollected domestic garbage, inadequate sanitary landfill, and disposal at sea of waste from construction activities. Both marine and desert ecosystems are at risk, in addition to the coastal zone environment including beaches, hotel resorts and urban centers. 4.70 At the root of the issue are the rapid development of the tourism industry and related urban growth. Adequate implementation of the EIA process for all new projects would be the appropriate preventive measure to significantly curb the land-based pollution. As noted above, the legal instruments for environmental protection provide an adequate framework to pollution control. The main issue is in the enforcement and monitoring of the legal prescriptions on wastewater quality and garbage collection, which is EEAA legal responsibility. To date, in the municipalities as in the TDA area, there is little evident inspection, monitoring and enforcement of existing laws and regulations governing water, wastewater and solid waste services. Fl. Areas Under TDA Jurisdiction 4.71 Existing tourist facilities within TDA areas are required to provide their own potable water, wastewater treatment facilities and handle individually solid waste collection and disposal. The relatively few establishments now in the TDA areas, (1600 hotel beds on a total of 14,700), all operate small desalination plants and small-scale package wastewater treatment plants, generally recycling the treated wastewater for irrigation of the hotel grounds, and use local contractors to collect and dispose solid waste. 4.72 Drinking water and treated wastewater standards are set by TDA based on WHO guidelines. As a practical matter, safe supplies of potable water are essential to the operation of each tourist facility, so to this extent, quality assurance is maintained by self-interest on the part of the tourist management. 4.73 National regulations governing the collection and disposal of solid wastesiz, have had no apparent application in the South Sinai. Collection from TDA-area is managed by each individual resort, generally by contracting with private collection firms or local Bedouins. There are some central disposal sites established by nearby municipalities - generally open pits in the nearby desert - which are burned periodically. Most of the area, however, reflects widespread open dumping and haphazard disposal of waste, much of which is plastic water bottles. 4.74 TDA is responsible for inspection and monitoring of tourism facilities. Options for Remedial Action 4.75 First, the proliferation of small, inefficient water supply and wastewater treatment facilities should be stopped and actions taken to consolidate these for future tourism investments in the TDA areas. In fact, TDA is already requiring common consolidated water supply and wastewater treatment systems -Service Companies-for the newly designated tourist development centers. D21 Law 4/1994 and Regulations thereunder, Article 38. 40 4.76 For solid waste collection and disposal, a privately-operated system covering the entire South Sinai area would enable economies of scale, collection of volumes sufficient to make recycling recovery economically practical, and centralization of disposal sites so that proper landfill construction and operational standards can be economically applied. This might require some cross-subsidy between private and public sector entities, to reflect the need for low service costs for municipal areas. Two pre- feasibility studies have already been carried out by the private sector. 4.77 Second, pollution control relies oll preventive measures expected to be reviewed during the EIA process. As long as such a process is properly implemented, the environmental threats should remain under control. However, there is no apparent outside inspection, testing or monitoring of project compliance with EIA and operational standards. Such a gap highlights the importance of properly managing the entire EIA process including its review, approval and enforcement, as recommended in the above section C. The GAEAP should address the need for improved and coordinated inspection, testing, enforcement and monitoring of environmental law and regulation in the Gulf of Aqaba coastal area (see Chapter VI). F2. Areas lJnder Municipal Jurisdiction 4.78 Land-based pollution in the municipal territory is a major concern for environmental protection in view of the deficiencies of the municipal services for collection, treatment and disposal of both wastewater and solid waste (see Chapter I]). Deficiencies of Municipal Services 4.79 The problems with delivery of municipal services stems from fragmented planning, slow and uncertain financing of improvements, inadequate or inadequately trained staff, and municipal administrative and accounting practices which do not allow for appropriate identification of problem areas and control of costs. The long-entrenched government practice of subsidizing these services has understandably generated significant relucitance on the part of the local population to pay for them. 4.80 Local Government agencies exhibit staff deficiencies both at the municipal and Governorate levels. Budgets, set by the central government, do not provide for sufficient staff personnel, and the prescribed system for budgetary accounting does not allow for cost-center management. Government salary scales do not address the higher cost of living in this tourism-dominated area, and local civil amenities - schools, etc. - are such that it is difficult to attract and keep skilled staff personnel for municipal administrative and operational duties. For similar reasons, the staff at the South Sinai Governorate charged with the responsibilities of inspection, monitoring and enforcement of environmental law and regulations is inadequate. 4.81 Planning for municipal service improvements is done by central government agencies, remotely located from the South Sinai. Responsibility for planning is divided among these agencies-the General Office for Physical Planning (GOPP) of the Ministry of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities (MOHUUC). Such plans as exist do not effectively cover the areas where growth is taking place, and in these instances, individual projects are approved by the Governor without any planning framework. Physical implementation of planned projects is handled by separate agencies, with separate budgets. Municipal projects are generally executed by the Sinai Reconstruction Authority (SRA) of the MOHIUUC, with budgets allocated by the Governorate. The SRA maintains a significant staff presence in the South Sinai. 41 Remedial Options 4.82 For water and wastewater systems, the GAEAP should assist the South Sinai Govemorate and the municipalities in establishing a system for coordinated system planning for each municipal sub-area (markez), with the view of developing comprehensive plans for serving the combined municipal and tourist demands, thus achieving some economy of scale in operations and lower unit costs of rehabilitation and construction. Likewise, solid waste management should cover large portions of the coastal area, as discussed above (par. 4.63). 4.83 Given the constraints of municipal budgeting and financing, the GAEAP should assist the local governments in devising a method by which the systems can be constructed and operated by private firms, with appropriate protection for the public interests and differential tariffs. The objective should be to attempt an operating and tariff arrangement that would cover operating costs, recover construction costs attributable to tourist demands, and appropriately address the anticipated increase in municipal populations that will be induced by the growth in tourism. 4.84 Building institutional capacity for monitoring, inspection, testing and enforcement of environmental law and regulations should be a key element of the GAEAP. This effort should be focused on the specific area of the Gulf of Aqaba coast and would include measures that will complement and coordinate the regulatory activities of the several agencies with authority in that area. Effective institutional capacity strengthening in the area will require addressing the government budgetary and personnel/salary limitations. G. Control of Pollution from Maritime Activities Combating Oil Spill Pollution 4.85 The National Egyptian Oil Spill Contingency Plan (NOSCP) approved in 1986, and currently under revision, outlines procedures for response to oil spills, primarily from maritime and offshore activities, and relies on a coordinate response by the public and private sectors. Central government coordination is provided by EEAA in Cairo. On-site coordination and response are under overall authority of EEAA assisted by the Ministry of Petroleum and the Ministry of Marine Transport. Four equipment centers have been established and are being operated by the Egyptian General Petroleum Company (EGPC) to provide rapid and effective response within NOSCP framework. 4.86 Within the framework of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan, two centers for oil spill pollution combating are being established in Sharm El Sheikh and Nuweiba with assistance from the European Union. The facilities have yet to be constructed. These two centers have been designed as a first phase project with capability to combat oil spills of less than 200 tons, planned to be expanded in a second phase to deal with larger spills. 4.87 The Sharm El Sheikh center will be an emergency center, with the main objective of protecting the Ras Mohammed National Park as well as the tourism activities and infrastructure on this stretch of the coast line from the oil pollution arising from shipping activity and petroleum exploration and exploitation in the El Tur region. The center would cover the strait of Tiran and the southern part of the Gulf of Suez. It would be assigned the tasks of surveillance and detection, contingency planning, cleanup of coastal zone, permanent protection of vulnerable areas, and combating pollution at sea and damage assessment. Construction of the facility is underway and equipment is being procured. 42 4.88 The center of Nuweiba is part of the "Upper Aqaba Oil Spill Contingency Project", a regional project supported by EU including the establishment of three centers in Aqaba, Eilat and Nuweiba with objective to combat oil spills in the upper part of the Gulf of Aqaba, north of Strait of Tiran. Regional arrangements have been laid out between three of the riparian states, i.e. Jordan, Israel and Egypt. The project includes the provision of equipment and technical assistance. A joint oil spill combat training exercise was held in 1995. Construction of the Nuweiba center is not yet underway and the actual site has yet to be agreed upon by the Authorities concerned. Further phases of the EU project include the setting up of a regional oil spill contingency plan and regional contingency arrangements. 4.89 To reduce the risk of accident in the strait of Tiran which are the source of major concern for environmental protection, the Government is currently improving the navigation system along the official navigation routes with donor-supported technical assistance. Pollution from Other Sources 4.90 Currently there are no plans to reduce the pollution from solid waste dumped at sea from the ferry between Nuweiba and Aqaba and from the animal carcasses dumped from cargo ships. The GAEAP will assist the Govemorate to take the appropriate pollution control measures, including: (a) the installation of appropriate on-board facilities for solid waste and waste water collection and storage, and (b) the installation in the port of Nuweiba of facilities for unloading and handling solid waste and waste water from shipboard. 4.91 Pollution of the Sharm El Moya port by diving boats and other vessels mainly result from a lack of sanitation facilities in the port. The GAEAP will help the Governorate in creating such facilities or removing the fleet to another anchorage. H. Coordination of Environmental Protection 4.92 At the national level, there is an adequate base of law and regulation for the establishment of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). Law 4/1994 assigns to EEAA the responsibility for initiating and implementing ICZM efforts in the Egyptian coastal zones. A National Steering Committee for ICZM has been established, with a secretariat under EEAA. A framework program for development of a National ICZM Plan was adopted in 1996. Environmental guidelines for development within the coastal zones have been issued by EEAA/EMS in booklet form, and a pilot ICZM project, oriented to preparing an environmentally sustainable tourism development strategy, is being prepared in the Egyptian Red Sea coastal zone. 4.93 There are no formal ICZM activities currently being undertaken in the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone. Monitoring and enforcement of the coastal zone development guidelines is infrequent and not comprehensive, mainly due to the lack of adequate staff presence in the area. Some oversight of coastal zone activities is being carried out by the DNP staff at Ras Mohammed. I. On-going Donor Supported Projects 4.94 The list of current donor-supported environmental projects is at Annex 8. Projects which have specific or potential application to the Guilf of Aqaba coastal zone are summarized below: 43 (a) Aqaba Protectorates Development Program (EU - ECU 15 million) The project aims at preserving and developing natural protectorates in the Gulf of Aqaba, specifically Ras Mohammed, Nabq, Abu Galum and Taba, as well as enhancing organizational capabilities to ensure better management of natural resources and preservation of biodiversity in the area. The project also targets at improving coastal zone management in the Gulf of Aqaba as a basis for supporting tourism development in South Sinai at large. (b) Oil Spill Contingency Plan (EU - ECU 8 million) The Upper Gulf of Aqaba Oil Spill Contingency Project is an extension of the previous oil spill combating project creating a regional linkage to similar activities in Israel and Jordan. It aims at establishing joint efforts between the riparian states to create an effective strategy for combating small to medium-sized spills, with oil spill response centers located in each of the 3 nations. The Egyptian centers are located in Nuweiba and Sharm-EI-Sheikh under the supervision of EEAA/EMS. (c) Environmental Information and Monitoring Program (DANIDA - US$1.8 million) This program aims at establishing an Egyptian environmental monitoring database and network to ensure that adequate environmental information reaches EEAA administration, policy makers and the general public. The national database will include coastal water monitoring; there are already ten proposed monitoring sites along the Gulf of Aqaba Coast. (d) Environmentally Sustainable Tourism (USAID) The project is to prepare an environmentally sustainable tourism development strategy for the Egyptian Red Sea Coast. The intent is to change the tourism management approach in Egypt from one of short- term gain and resource depletion to a longer term approach giving priority to sound environmental management with proper utilization of natural and cultural resources. Results and recommendations of the study will be of potential relevance to the Gulf of Aqaba. (e) Egyptian Red Sea Coastal Zone Management Project (GEF - US$5.9 million) (f) Nuweiba waste treatment plant (USAID - US$20 million) V. STRATEGY FOR GAEAP 5.1 GAEAP's objective is to protect the environment while ensuring the sustainability of the tourism activity in the Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba. The challenge of the proposed Egyptian Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan will be to enlist private investors to environmental protection through a public/private partnership. Both components of the objective are closely interlinked: any failure in .protecting the natural resources would negatively affect the tourism industry which is largely based on their exploitation; any decline in tourism revenues would result in lessening financial resource allocation 44 to environmental protection. Private sector participation boosts tax revenues, reduces Government expenditures (e.g., in water supply and sanitation) and creates jobs 5.2 Given the number of, and interrelation between, the economic and environmental aspects, formulating the GAEAP first requires articulating a strategic vision of the long-term development of the region. This chapter discusses the strategic basis supporting the GAEAP, including: (a) the strengths and weaknesses of the long-term economic development of the Gulf of Aqaba coast; (b) the environmental threats to be addressed by the GAEAP; and (c) the key principles on which the GAEAP is based. A. Strengths and Weaknesses for Tourism Development on the Egypitian Coast of the Gulf of Aqaba Strengths 5.3 The Egyptian coast of the Gulf of Aqaba offers a major potential for international tourism development, due to: (a) quality of the natural setting: beauty of shoreline and desert hinterland, warm temperatures, clarity of marine water and presence of large sandy beaches; (b) ecological diversity of the -oral reef and the related marine ecosystem, making the region a world class destination for all categories of divers; (c) proximity of a large European population attracted by the Gulf of Aqaba attributes; (d) availability of a modem transport, energy and telecommunication infrastructure developed by the government; and (e) the necessity to protect the environment and, in particular, conserve the marine and desert ecosystems, is well suppoited by the government and the private sector which has largely based its activity on the use of these unique ecosystems. 5.4 The above strengths offer a number of opportunities for developing the tourism industry, resulting from the following factors: (a) the European market is alr.ady aware of, and receptive to, the attractions of the area; (b) important segments of the virgin coastal line are available for development, allowing for large and diversified investments in tourism resorts and supporting activities; (c) absence of prior construction and competitive economic activities, which will allow for orderly development of mo'dem and attractive facilities; (d) capability and willingnes; of private investors in financing, developing and operating environmental related infrastructure and services, e.g., water desalination, wastewater treatment and solid waste management; and (e) availability of a comprehensive legislation, institutional setting and overall experience to support environmental protection while encouraging tourism development. 45 Weaknesses 5.5 The region suffers a number of constraints adversely impacting the tourism development, in particular: (a) the enclosed nature of the Gulf of Aqaba, which makes its waters vulnerable to pollution; (b) fragility of the marine and desert ecosystems, sensitive to anthropogenic pressures, in particular pollution from land based and marine sources as well as visitation pressure; (c) high costs of urban infrastructure which requires desalination of potable water, wastewater treatment and garbage recycling; (d) absence of previous economic activity, which results in the shortage of skilled workers, supporting small business and social services (schools, hospitals, etc.); and (e) presence of four riparian countries on a limited territory, creating the potential for transboundary conflicts, in particular on pollution and communications, and disruptive international tensions which would discourage international visitors. 5.6 Possible threats could jeopardize the performance of the tourism industry, in particular: (a) priority given to short term financial profits, conflicting with the long term vision required for environmental protection; (b) excessive growth of the private sector leading to overcapacity and declining profitability of the tourism industry; (c) pervasive unbalanced delivery of services between the areas developed by the private sector (TDA land) and those under municipal jurisdiction; (d) insufficient allocation of fiscal resources to enable EEAA, SSG and the Municipalities to fulfill adequate environmental protection; (e) lack of EEAA and SSG leadership and coordinating capacity in implementing the environmental legislation, in particular for ELA process; and (f) potential for severe and irreversible environmental damage if the above weaknesses and threats are not properly addressed; B. Threats, Causes and Remedial Actions 5.7 From the environmental protection perspective, four major threats have been examined in this report as requiring immediate remedial action, i.e.: (a) Land based pollution, resulting from the rapid growth of tourism investments, poor EIA implementation, insufficient municipality capacity to provide infrastructure and services, and lack of enforcement of existing environmental legislation, in particular on pollution control and health protection. The results are the pollution of marine waters and the shoreline and coastal land supporting the tourism facilities by poorly treated urban 46 effluents, desalination brine, uncollected garbage and inadequate landfills. Both pollution and sedimentation negatively affect the coral reefs; (b) Tourist activities, resulting from insufficiently regulated and supervised recreational activities such as boating, diving, and safari. The threats mainly impact the unprotected areas but also the core protected areas. The results are the direct destruction of the marine and terrestrial ecosystems in addition to pollution from all sort of wastes; (c) Natural disasters, resulting from lack of flood control in some vulnerable wadis and insufficient enforcement of the anti-seismic regulations embodied in the building code. The threats impact on all terrestrial public infrastructure and tourism facilities. Discharging sediment-loaded flood waters into the sea also affects the marine ecosystems of the shoreline, in particular the coral reef; and (d) Marine pollution from rnaritime activities, including cargo shipping and ferry services. This results in marine water and shoreline pollution from oil and chemical spills and shipboard wastes, affecting both the coral reefs and the shoreline. The risk of major oil spill from tanker collision should also be considered. 5.8 The following Table 5.1 summarizes the causes of the above environmental threats and the remedies proposed by the GAEAP which cover a wide range of aspects: legal and regulatory, institutional and managerial. They also include a number of public and private investments. C. Enhancing Institutional Efficiency Institutional Deficiency 5.9 The threats on environment are exacerbated by Govermment inability to cope with the requirements or consequences of the tourism expansion, as detailed in Chapter IV and globally reflected by: (a) the lack of coherence in land use planning and environmental protection of the Egyptian coast of Aqaba due, in particular, to the number of insufficiently coordinated Govermnent agencies; and (b) the inability of Government agencies to adequately implement and enforce the existing environmental legislation, in particular the EIA process and environmental monitoring. 5.10 The causes of the institutional deficiencies mainly originate in the following issues: (a) fragmentation of the land use planning, involving TDA for tourism sectors, Municipalities and EEAA for protectorates; (b) absence of local leadership for coordinating land use and environmental protection, due to the weakness of SSG administration; (c) excessive centralization of responsibilities for land use and environmental protection; (d) inability of EEAA and SSG to implement the environmental legislation due to lack of resource, experience and leadership; 47 (e) poor managerial and financial capability of Municipalities for provision of essential environment-related services; and (f) excessive concentration of decision power in Government agencies and limited voice left to the private sector and NGOs. Strategy Supported by GAEAP 5.11 To overcome the above issues the GAEAP will improve, strengthen and/or rationalize the existing legal and institutional framework through an institutional development strategy based on the following initiatives: (a) increasing SSG coordinating role for land use and environmental development (b) involving private stakeholders (investors, NGOs) in the coordination process; (c) expanding the role of the private sector in the financing, development and operation of municipal services; (d) increasing capability of SSG and EEAA in implementing environmental legislation through adequate budget allocation and capacity building; and (e) decentralizing a large portion of EEAA responsibilities in the EIA process. Proposed Institutional Setting 5.12 To implement the above strategy, the GAEAP would support the following institutional adjustments: (a) creation of an environmental coordination instrument - the Egyptian Agaba Coast Coordination Council (EACCC) - chaired by the Governor of South Sinai, including all Government agencies and private sector representatives involved in land use and environmental protection (EACCC responsibilities and membership are detailed in Chapter VI); (b) enabling the Environmental Management Unit (EMU) of SSG to adequately perform the environmental responsibilities of the Governorate, i.e. (i) the CAA function within the municipal limits; and (ii) the enforcement of the environmental legislation placed under any local government (details in Chapter VI); and (c) establishing a EEAA Regional Branch Office in the Aqaba coast - the South Sinai Regional Branch Office (SS-RBO) - to implement EEAA responsibilities, in particular the EIA process, through review of applications submitted by the relevant CAAs and enforcement of the decisions Rationale for Decentralizing the ETA Process 5.13 Creating a regional branch of EEAA would have several advantages for implementing the EIA process, in particular: 48 (a) increasing the focus on the specific issues for environmental protection in the Gulf coast, i.e. the tourism development and coral reef protection, whereas the central EEAA office activities on EIA are fragmented into a variety of environmental issues associated, in particular with large urban, infrastructure and industrial developments. This would allow for rapid on-the-job training of a small, well-selected nucleus of specialized national experts; (b) immediately obtaining the required field data and stakeholder feedback, i.e. the CAAs (EMU and the local units of TDA and DNP) and the applicant investors, whereas such activity would be inherently constrained by transport, accommodation and communication hurdles if carried out from Cairo. This would be reflected by the quicker and better implementation of the ETA review process; (c) contributing to the necessary decentralization of environmental protection decisions by providing technical assistance to EMU and the EACCC, as well as to the national consultants, reviewers and experts participating into the EIA process for the Gulf of Aqaba; and (d) attracting international cooperation required at SS-RBO startup by providing a framework for simple, efficient, small scale, focused and easy to monitor technical assistance project. 5.14 Although the objective would be to have the largest possible portion of the EIA process implemented at the local level, transitional arrangements will be required at the outset of the GAEAP implementation under which the central EEAA office would retain part of the responsibility. Setting out the detailed distribution of the operational responsibilities would be contingent upon the mobilization of the foreign technical assistance and become part of the GAEAP implementation process. D. Key Principles of the Environmental Action Plan 5.15 The environmental action plan strategy is based on a number of key principles which guide the formulation of both the framework and the specific actions of the program. These key principles include: (a) Application of both preventive and curative measures. Curative actions will be taken in the case of all existing environmental hazards. However, the most significant aspect of the plan is to introduce preventive actions based on the selection of appropriate technologies for production processes and pollution control, and the application of environmental planning criteria in all development initiatives so as to ensure long-term sustainability; (b) Enforcing existing legislation. An important body of legal and regulatory instruments has been developed in Egypt during the last decade and, if properly enforced, will provide a strong framework for environmental protection, in particular in the Gulf of Aqaba coastline; (c) Balancing economic with einvironmental factors. The action plan will demonstrate the possibility of balancing economic development with environmental protection; (d) Promoting a coordinated, multi-sectoral avproach to planning, investment decisions and enforcement of standards, laws and regulations, involving all stakeholders on a decentralized basis; 49 (e) Adoption of economic measures. These include: (i) Adoption of "Polluter/User Pays" Principle. Strengthening of monitoring and enforcement capabilities of the regulatory organizations, as well as improving environmental management capabilities of the major water polluters and coral reef users, will be enhanced in order that the financial burden for prevention and control of pollution rests with the party responsible for its generation; and (ii) Adoption of Realistic User Charges. This will include provision for cost recovery through user charges and the establishment of legal framework and financial management systems enabling authorities to charge, retain and recycle revenues required for the provision of utility service (water, electricity, wastewater, waste) and coral reef protection. (f) Control of pollution at source. The implementation of the plan will introduce the use of environmental audits in industrial enterprises as a means of identifying the causes of environmental problems, identifying inefficient waste generating process and identifying options for their management; (g) Building local capacity. Institutional strengthening and human resource development will be undertaken in order to overcome administrative and management constraints to effective environmental management; (h) Encouragement of private sector participation. The implementation of the plan will, through a variety of incentives and the introduction and enforcement of the "polluter pays" principle, encourage private sector investment in environmental cleanup and operation and maintenance of effective waste management procedures. Where appropriate, provision of options for concession management (e.g., solid waste management) will be considered; and (i) Recognition of the role and sensitivities of ecological processes. The implementation of the plan will enhance, through applied research, the understanding of natural ecological systems with a view to facilitating environmental management within ecological tolerance levels. 50 Table 5.1. Environmnental Threats, Causes and Remedies Incomplete EIA process: insufficient review of projects -Increasing TDA and SSG capacity for CAA's function before execution and absence of inspection and monitoring after execution -Increasing EEAA capacity for EIA review -Increasing stakeholders capacity (consultants, investors, - etc.) .___________________________ -Developing guidelines for monitoring application of EIA Land based pollution Promotion of private/public sector partnership to develop threatening ecosystems and and operate water supply, wastewater treatment and solid tourism facilities waste management projects respecting environmental A3 standards. Difficulty for Municipalities to keep pace with demand Completion of ongoing and planned municipal for urban infrastructure and services induced by private infrastructure projects for water supply and waste water E sector-supported development treatment Implementation of a solid waste management project for the entire Aqaba coast and a regional recycling plant. -Completion of equipment and staff training of Nabq and Abu Galum Managed Resource Protected areas : -: Insufficient protection of marine ecosystems in Core A Galu Mng X Tourist activities Protected Areas, resulting from lack of guidelines, -Official declaration of "buffer zones" threatening marine and enforcement capacity and public awareness -Provision of necessary manpower and equipment for G terrestrial ecosystem supervision of visitor activities -Establishment of desert core protected areas -Improving visitor/operator awareness on environmental conservation Insufficient protection of marine and terrestrial D a i of gdi fr ecosystems outside Core Protected areas receaonand implementation of guldelies fora recreational activities ;;tf:i 0:. 51 (Table 5.1 continued) Natural Disasters D from floods and sismic -Design and implementation of a flood protection activity, threatening public Insufficient protection and response capability to natural masterplan infrastructure, tourism disasters -Evaluation of seismic risks and preparation of an facilities and marine emergency plan. ecosystems Marine po.l n LEstablishment of Oil Spills Combating Centers in Nuweiba . Marine polluton Lack of oil spills combating centers and regional oil and Sharm El Sheikh, including construction, equipment resulting from maritime spills contingency plan and stafftraining. activities, and threatening coral reefs and shoreline 52 VI. THE GULF OF AQABA ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 6.1 The GAEAP will address the legal, institutional and investment needs supporting the objective of protecting the Gulf coastal zone environment while ensuring the sustainability of its economic development. The Plan will lead to the stimulation of private investment in environmental clean-up and prevention measures. The Plan will adclress areas requiring additional efforts to improve efficiency in government programs in a close partnership with the private sector. A. Institutional Strengthening 6.2 The current institutional framework, detailed in Chapter III, is delineated in Chart 4. The proposed framework is summarized in Clhart 8. EIA functions of relevant organizations are summarized in Chart 9. Al. Establishment of the Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council in SSG 6.3 To enhance and streamline the process of managing the enviromnental protection of the coastal zone of the Gulf of Aqaba, the "Egvptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council" (EACCC) would be created under the Governor's chairmanship to coordinate locally all activities having an environmental impact. 6.4 It is internationally recognized that governmental decisions affecting the coastal zone must be carefully integrated and coordinated in order to competently reflect the concerns of competing interests in use of the sea, the seashore and adjacent territories. International standards for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) recommend that government agency decisions be reviewed through a multi- sectoral process, to insure that all interests, including private sector interests, be represented in the decision-making process. In the Sinai coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, several competing interests contend for use of unique and limited resources. A methodology for evaluating plans and actions of these different interests so that all factors can be considered in the governmental decision-making process should be devised for this area, and a possible approach is outlined below. Responsibilities of the Council 6.5 Under the chairmanship of the Governor of South Sinai, the "Egyptian Aqaba Coastal Coordination Council", representative of the major interests in the Gulf of Aqaba region, would be established with the responsibility to suppDrt the Govemorate and central state agencies with respect to: (a) central government agency actions and regulations which may affect the Gulf coast in specific areas of concern; (b) standards and guidelines for access to the sea from tourist establishments and public beaches, including guidelines for small boats, docks, piers, reef crossing points and swimming areas; 53 (c) coordination of land use plans as prepared by all agencies responsible for such planning for areas within the Gulf of Aqaba region; (d) endorsement of construction proposals within the region for consistency with the applicable land use plans and pertinent government standards; (e) endorsement of all applications for construction license for consistency with applicable land use plans and pertinent standards; (f) coordination of planning and financing of infrastructure projects - water, wastewater and solid waste - to ensure optimum cost/service delivery arrangements between private and public interests; (g) regulatory enforcement of national laws related to environment; (h) hearings and meetings as may be delegated to the Council by the Governor in order to make recommendations to the Governor and/or relevant agencies in cases involving violations of rules and regulations, appeals of licensing decisions; and (i) a licensing and registration program for water craft use in the near-shore and coral reef along the Gulf coast. Adopt appropriate measures for enforcement. Composition of the Council 6.6 The Council could be composed as follows: (a) the Governor of South Sinai who shall act as chair; (b) the Chief Executive Officer of EEAA and the Head of TDA, as Core Members; (c) the Managing Director of the Social Fund for Development; (d) the Heads of city councils (Mayors) of Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab, and Sharm El Sheikh; (e) the Secretariat of the National ICZM Committee; (f) one or more representatives of major tourism interests; (g) one or more representatives of diving operators, merchants and other small business activities in the Gulf zone; and (h) representatives of the Bedouins, the general public, and NGOs with active interests in the Gulf zone 6.7 The technical staff personnel should be seconded as needed from the SS-RBO (par. 6.9) and individual interest agencies. The SS-RBO staff would serve as secretariat to the Council. Under the direction of the Council, the staff should assemble all current and ongoing land use plans affecting the South Sinai coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, review these plans with the purpose of evaluating the consistency of interrelationship between the several plans, and propose appropriate revision/amendment of any plans which are internally or externally inconsistent. The staff would also prepare, for action bythe Council, regulations and standards necessary for administration and enforcement of the GAEAP. 54 Meeting Schedule 6.8 The Council should meet on a regular schedule to consider recommendations of the Governor and staff, and to solicit views from public and private interests in the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone. Detailed responsibilities, composition ancl activity schedule of the Council would be prepared and agreed upon as part of GAEAP implementation. A2. Establishment of the South. Sinai Regional Branch Office in Sharm El Sheikh 6.9 To implement all EEAA environmental responsibilities in South Sinai, the "South Sinai Regional Branch Office" (SS-RBO) would be established in Sharm El Sheikh as a Regional Branch Office (RBO) of EEAA, with the same mandate and responsibilities as any other RBO affiliated with EEAA. SS-RBO will serve as the Secretariat to the Coordination Council and provide supporting staff services to the Council for those duties of the Council enumerated in par 6.4; 6.10 The SS-RBO, which is an integral part of EEAA structure, will represent all EEAA functions and responsibilities, including enforcement of Laws 102/1983 and 4/1994. Particular attention will be given by the SS-RBO to the following activities: (a) administering the provisions of Laws 102/1983 and 4/1994 for inspection, monitoring and enforcement within the entire coastal zone and hinterland, including the adjacent shoreline areas; (b) within the coastal zone, coordinating monitoring, sampling, inspection and enforcement of laws and regulations, including monitoring all activities within the 200 meter setback line for compliance with Article 59 of the Executive Regulations; (c) ensuring that executive functions of EMU are strengthened through coordinated and consistent action; (d) administering, within the Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone, the provisions of the Executive Regulations of the Law for the Environment (Law 4/1994), including, but not limited to the following: (i) advising and assisting relevant CAA (TDA, SRA, local administration) in screening ElAs; (ii) ensuring efficient and effective local Environmental Impact Assessment process, and inspection in accordance with Articles 17-18 of the Executive Regulations; (iii) establishing a process of periodic monitoring and inspection of all wastewater treatment systems wiithin the coastal zone, to ensure compliance with applicable ELA requirements ancl national standards; (iv) monitoring and inspecting port facilities and vessels in ports within coastal zone for compliance with Articles 51, 54-56 of the Regulations; (v) monitoring and inspecting all solid waste collection and disposal systems for compliance with Articles 38-41, and assisting the local administration in developing rules and systems that conform to the requirements of the regulations; and (vi) ensuring effective implementation of NOSCP. 55 (e) implementing EEAA activities in the field of Public Environmental Awareness and Education Program for presentation to local administration staff, tourist facility staff and NGOs; (f) promoting and monitoring hotel application of the environmental standards of International Standard Organization (ISO-14000) and the International Hotels Environment Initiative (IHEI); and (g) establishing program of registration and licensing of watercraft, including dive boats and diving guides as a means of providing incentives for diving operators to observe environmental regulations and visitation limitations. This program would be implemented by, and in coordination with, concerned authorities. It should include setting standards for training, safety, pollution control, and maintenance, and provide for periodic inspections for compliance. 6.11 To enhance coordination between the SS-RBO and EEAA central office, in particular for the EIA process, the EMS department of EEAA would also be strengthened through appointment of additional staff, technical assistance and training. However, the additional resources allocated to EMS strengthening under the GAEAP would be exclusively used for activities associated with the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba coastal region. Comprehensive Resource Evaluation 6.12 The Egyptian coastal region of the Gulf of Aqaba currently contains a number of valuable resources - natural resources, a growing population, and proximity to international markets - and a common understanding among decision-makers of the needs and possibilities of the area as a tourist destination. The factors associated with population growth and development of tourism in the region interact with each other in complex ways, but the response to these issues at present is fragmented. Municipal planning and administration, master land use planning, budgeting and construction of infrastructure, protection of natural resources and administration of regulatory agency responsibilities are carried out by a number of different agencies, on time schedules that are seldom integrated with each other. The GAEAP proposes to address this fragmentation of authority and action by improved coordination of planning, budgeting and administration. 6.13 In order that this coordination effort be based on a common set of facts and forecasts, the GAEAP proposes the preparation of a regional Comprehensive Resource Evaluation (CRE). The scope of such a study should result in a consolidated compilation of current geographic conditions, existing land use plans, environmental resource inventory and identification of potential problem areas, social issues and concerns and economic issues. This study should encompass the entire Egyptian Gulf coastal region, including municipal, TDA and protectorate areas, extending inland to include all features which are proximately related to current or potential impacts on the sea and coastline. The study should address all current and projected economic, social and environmental issues associated with population growth and tourism development in the Egyptian Gulf coastal region, using a common set of current information and forecast assumptions. The objective of such a study is to provide all agencies and actors in the region with a common set of data and mutually agreed assumptions on which to base decisions, and to provide initial data in a form suitable for subsequent digitization, so that the existing rudimentary GIS data base can eventually be expanded so as to serve the Coordinating Council recommended by the GAEAP and all participating agencies. Estimated cost of the CRE is $1.5 million. The study would be implemented by SS-RBO with appropriate technical assistance. 56 A3. Strengthening of SSG Environmental Management Unit 6.14 The SSG Environmental Management Unit is to carry out the Governorate responsibilities for environmental management, which include EIA screening (CAA) and enforcement, as delineated in par. 3.19. The EMU is to work with SS-RBO to carry out its responsibilities for the Governorate of South Sinai at large. However, for the Gulf of Aqaba region, EMU would be closely coordinating with the SS- RBO for the EIA screening activities and enforcement requirements as well as any other environmental function as delegated by the Governor. As such, the EMU would need to increase its staff and require a capacity building program that would include technical assistance as well as provision of equipment needed to carry out these responsibilities. A4. Promotion of Private/Public Sector Partnerships 6.15 To ensure that the provision of environmentally needed urban infrastructure and services will keep pace with the rapid growth of the demand from tourism resorts and resident population, the GAEAP would encourage the participation of the private sector in the financing, construction and operation of projects in the areas under jurisdiction of TDA or Municipalities throughout the entire Gulf of Aqaba coast. 6.16 The challenge would be to enlist private operators to environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba coastal region. The GAEAP would support the preparation of feasibility studies for the financing, construction and operation of project:s of water supply, wastewater treatment and solid waste management respecting the environmental standards and guidelines. Priority would be given to large scale and integrated projects, ensuring scale economies, covering both municipal and TDA territory, allowing for affordable rates for the resident population, and relieving municipal government from the financing and operational burdens (see E and F). While the private sector has demonstrated its capability to build and operate municipal services in Sharn El Sheikh, the pricing of such services will require careful consideration in view of the difference between full operating costs borne by the utility entity and the current municipal tariffL1. 6.17 Estimated cost of the institutional enhancement component is US$6.5 million. This includes staffing, equipment, and technical assistaince for a five-year period. B. Enforcing and Strengthening Laws and Regulations B1. Enforcing EIA Regulations 6.18 As the majority of construction aLlong the coast will take place over the next ten years, the first priority is to improve the approval, enforcement and monitoring stages of the EIA process. The GAEAP would increase the capacity of TDA (US$1 million) and SSG as CAA, and the review and inspection As an example, the cost of producing desalinated water is projected to be not less than US$2 per cubic meter, whereas the municipal tariff for potable water is currently US$0.03 (LE 0.25). With municipal demand estimated at 3 million cubic meters per year in 2017 (excluding the demand from 60% of the tourism workers supposed to be directly housed and serviced by the hotels), the financial gap would be about US$6 million per year, to be covered by the users through tariff increase, by the tourism industry through a cross-subsidy scheme between hotels and municipalities, or by the city budget through direct subsidy to the water producers. 57 capacity of EEAA as described in Chapter IV. Guidelines and SS-RBO capacity will be developed to monitor closely EIA applications. The GAEAP would also support the implementation of a global environmental assessment of each municipal and tourism development sector and review all individual projects already approved or executed outside the regular ETA process and make recommendations to the Government on measures to be taken to reduce any potential environmental damage. B2. Enhancing Legal Protection of Areas Adjacent to Core Protected Areas 6.19 This is detailed in section G. C. Marine Pollution Management Cl. Establishment of Two Oil Spill Combat Centers in Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh 6.20 Two oil spill combat centers, in Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh, are being established with funding and technical assistance from the EU. The site for the Ras Mohammed facility has been selected and equipment is being procured. The Nuweiba site has yet to be identified. The implementation of the GAEAP will support the completion of both projects including construction, recruitment and training. The cost is estimated at US$8 million and is funded by the EU. C2. Construction of Sanitation Facilities in the Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh Ports 6.21 To prevent water pollution from maritime activities in the Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh ports, the implementation of the GAEAP would support: (a) the construction in the Nuweiba and Sharm El Sheikh ports of sanitation facilities aimed at receiving and handling solid and liquid wastes from the vessels. Liquid waste would be subsequently released into the municipal sewerage system and the solid waste would be collected by the municipal garbage collection system; and (b) the improvement of shipboard sanitation facilities to ensure storage of solid and liquid wastes. Such a project is being envisaged for the Nuweiba port. Estimated cost of the sanitation facilities for Sharm El Sheikh and Nuweiba is US$500,000. C3. Design and Implementation of a Marine Water Quality Monitoring Program 6.22 Based on the ongoing EQS and DNP monitoring activities, a program for monitoring the Gulf s waters will be designed and implemented by SS-RBO, in coordination with the National Research Centre, National Institute for Oceanography and Fisheries, and Petroleum Research Institute. The framework for a marine water quality monitoring program is presented in Annex 5. Its objectives are to assess the current water quality, and to establish measures to maintain and improve water quality. The monitoring program should include baseline monitoring of the water quality once a month at selected sites along the coast (including bathing areas) and from the offshore oceanic waters, so as to assess the horizontal and vertical distribution and movement of nutrients, inorganic components, algae, and oxygen, 58 salinity, etc. The program would include: monitoring water, currents and circulation. This could involve the use of tracer techniques to analyze the dispersion characteristics in the Gulf. 6.23 The priority will be to reinforce t!he ongoing monitoring activities, e.g.,: (a) reinforce DNP actions to establish regional standardized resource monitoring procedures with regular joint simultaneous monitoring and accessible national databases networked regionally; (b) provide the basis and framework for defining regional management/monitoring protocols; (c) reinforce training programs at the DNP Sharm Training Facility to support regional actions in line with agreed protocols (b); and (d) complete equipment inventories namely remote temperature recorders, tide/current gauges as well as provide links to ocean monitoring satellites and subscribing to data bank to record surface productivity, sea level, temperature, anomalies. 6.24 An outline of priority research activities, which will provide EEAA with understanding of critical and essential environmental and ecological processes, will be prepared. Design of the research program will be guided by the need for solutions to existing and foreseen problems. Consequently, design and subsequent review of the applied research program will be directed by specialists directly involved in formulation and implementation of program actions. Research topics are likely to include: (a) investigation of the impact of releases at sea of untreated domestic wastewater and brine from desalination plant on aquatic life, corals, seagrass beds and fishes; (b) assessment of status and trends of the coral reefs diversity and abundance; (c) monitoring of sedimentation levels associated with floods on the land interface; and (d) applied research in coral reef ecological systems with emphasis on demonstrating and measuring significant ecological responses to the principal anthropogenic influences. 6.25 Institutional arrangements to carry out the water monitoring program will be defined. Participation of the University of Suez Canal will be sought for GIS-related monitoring activities. While some of the equipment required to carry out components of the water monitoring program are already located at RMNP, the stations currently lacks adequate staff and budget resources to undertake the level of operation required. In any case, equipment which is currently available at DNP, would need to be supplemented (Annex 4). 6.26 Equipment required by the marine water quality monitoring program will include a vessel. The vessel would be used to: (a) carry out the monitoring program throughout the Egyptian coast and marine waters of the Gulf; (b) sample and supervi se control of spills of hazardous substances at sea; (c) perform supplementary monitoring; and (d) undertake scientific research. Facilities, equipment and additional personnel necessary to carry out this component will be further defined. Cost of the water quality monitoring program, including provision of the vessel, is funded by the EU (through RMNP phase II and through DANIDA). Additional technical assistance is estimated at US$200,000. 6.27 Part of this component is being carried out through the DANIDA-supported "Environmental Infornation and Monitoring Program" (US$1.8 million). This program aims at establishing an Egyptian 59 environmental monitoring database and network, to ensure that adequate environmental information reaches EEAA administration, policy makers and the general public. The national database will include coastal water monitoring; there are already ten proposed monitoring sites along the Gulf of Aqaba coast. D. Flood and Earthquake Protection DI. Flood Protection 6.28 To protect the municipal and TDA land, the GAEAP will support preparation of a comprehensive masterplan covering the relevant watersheds of the entire coastal zone. The plan will: (a) assess the risk of flood and associated damage; (b) identify the most vulnerable areas; (c) propose solutions which may include zoning, warning system, storage reservoirs, flood plains, dikes, water courses etc.; (d) prepare feasibility studies for priority projects, including a cost/benefit financial analysis; (e) prepare a flood contingency plan; and (f) recommend a structure, and equipment for an emergency flood control team to be established under SSG, which would be responsible for flood warning, maintaining flood control facilities and implementing the flood contingency plan. 6.29 The GAEAP would help in implementing priority projects and establishing a "flood control unit" in SSG through provision of equipment and training. The National Institute for Astronomy and Geophysics as well as the National Agency for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences will be closely associated with this activity. Total cost is estimated at US$7 million, including implementation of priority investments. D2. Earthquakes 6.30 The Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone is classified as a highly sensitive area for seismic risk. In 1992, an earthquake caused little damage but signaled that all structural design should include earthquake resistance. To assist in reducing the impact of earthquakes, SS-RBO will monitor the enforcement of earthquake building codes. The two national institutions mentioned in par. 6.29 will be closely associated with this activity. E. Water And Wastewater Management 6.31 Water and wastewater Management will necessitate monitoring of brine effluents from desalination plants and effluent of treatment plants within the context of the marine water quality program; fully connecting the Taba, Nuweiba, Dahab, and Sharm El Sheikh municipalities and all hotel complexes to a sewage collection and treatment system; developing and implementing an action plan for 60 wastewater reuse; and reducing loses in the water distribution systems of Nuweiba and Dahab. The estimated cost of these investments is US$70.7 million. El. Monitoring of Effluent from Desalination and Wastewater Treatment Plants 6.32 These monitoring aspects are detailed in C3. E2. Taba Municipality Construction of a Wastewater Treatment Station 6.33 The GAEAP will support the construction of a wastewater plant to remediate disposal in the desert and the septic tanks. This would impose a rehabilitation and expansion of the existing sewerage system. The project would come in addlition to the ongoing construction of a 1500 m3/day treatment plant by the Hilton hotel to serve the hotel and nearby new developments. The capacity of the municipal plant would take into consideration the expansion of the tourism and residential demand, in addition to that already covered by the Hilton hotel. .Private\public partnership would be sought for construction and operation of the new plant. Cost is estimated at US$500,000. E3. Nuweiba Municipality Rehabilitation and Expansion of the Potable Water Distribution and Wastewater Systems 6.34 Important losses (40%) occur on the distribution system while 15% of the current population is served by tanker truck. The situation is rapidly worsening with the expansion of the tourism industry (see Annex 7). The GAEAP will include the preparation of an assessment of the potable water production and distribution systems and sewerage and wastewater systems, the preparation of feasibility studies for investments in water supply and wastewater treatment complementing and consolidating the ongoing MOPWWR pipeline project supply water from the Ain Furtaga and the USAID-funded project for water distribution and wastewater treatment. E4. Dahab Municipality Loss Reduction in the Potable Water Distribution System 6.35 Potable water is produced by a desalination plant constructed in 1995 with a capacity of 1200 m3 per day. Water losses in the existing system are estimated at 35%. The GAEAP will assess the water distribution system and the required investments to rehabilitate the distribution system. Construction of a Wastewater Treatment Plant 6.36 SRA has commissioned the rehabilitation of the damaged oxidation ponds and the construction a new treatment plant. The implementation of the GAEAP focuses on the investments associated with such a project. 61 E5. Sharm El Sheikh Municipality Potable Water Supply 6.37 Demand for potable water is steadily increasing with the dramatic increase in new tourism resorts. Most of the hotels get their water from individual desalination plants or from the 6,000 m3/day plant owned and operated by SSWC. The municipal system needs rehabilitation. The GAEAP will prepare a master plan for the 2000-2015 period and priority feasibility studies. The construction of a 7,000 m3/day desalination plant in the Sharm El Moya area, already under consideration by SRA, will be integrated within the framework of GAEAP. Wastewater Treatment 6.38 The implementation of the GAEAP will focus on the completion of two large wastewater treatment investments, partially implemented, i.e.: (a) an oxidation pond system with a 15,000 m3/day capacity, owned by the municipality; and (b) an activated sludge plant with a 4,000 m3/day capacity, owned by SSWC. F. Solid Waste Management Solid Waste Management Project for the Coastal Zone 6.39 Private investors have undertaken feasibility studies for collecting, sorting, recycling and disposing of the solid waste generated on the entire Gulf of Aqaba coastal zone. Two projects are proposed: one covering the Taba-Nuweiba area and the other extending from Dahab to Sharm El Sheikh. Investment costs for the two projects are estimated at US$30 million. The projects would serve both municipal and TDA land. The projects would be constructed and operated by the private sector. The Dahab-Sharm El Sheikh project might be co-financed by the Social Fund for Development. 6.40 The implementation of the GAEAP will: (a) complete feasibility studies to include financial projections and the proposed fee structure for tourism resorts and residential areas; and (b) realize a first tranche of investments. Implementation of Solid Waste Collection on the Nuweiba-Aqaba Ferry 6.41 To reduce water pollution from shipboard waste (e.g., plastic, foam cups) generated on the Nuweiba-Aqaba ferry, the GAEAP will promote: (a) the construction of garbage bins on the ferries (US$300,000); and (b) the collection of the solid waste by the Arab Bridge Maritime Company. 62 G. Prttected Area Management 6.42 Given the intensive hotel constructions occurring all along the Aqaba coast, the on-going work of DNP of the EEAA will need to be consolidated with additional managerial priority activities. The DNP staff and capacity for research, educational programs, monitoring and enforcement of activity within the protected areas need to be supported and enhanced in anticipation of increased visitation. Equipment (boats) and staff are needed to patrol the waters along the entire coast. Additional equipment and training of staff for the Nabq and Abu Galum areas is needed. Current preliminary management plans will require updating based on additional baseline data and anticipated increased visitation. Management measures could include periodic limitatioin of diving activity, designation of alternative diving sites, etc. Estimated cost, in addition of EU funding of US$15.5 million, is US$1.5 million. The proposed activities, which are based on ongoing DNP programs, are as follows: (a) Completing equipment and staffing/training of Nabq and Abu Galum Parks: This will enable Nabq and Abu Galum to reach the level of protection afforded to Ras Mohammed. In Nabq, the natural protection of the area, due to the presence of mine fields, is disappearing as mines are being deactivated. These two areas are being surrounded by massive hotel complex and subject to increased visitation pressure, hence the immediate protection of the marine/land interface is crucial. Both sea and land patrolling should be ensured; (b) Strengthening of Bedouin program activities: Abu Galum, Nabq, and the adjacent areas are inhabited by Bedouins. The on-going preliminary activities to integrate the Bedouins should be enhanced. Development of craft and culinary activities shoulid be explored and implemented. A fund, to assist Bedouins in developing income-generating activities, should be established through the Social Fund for Development; (c) Identifying, through ministerial decree, the areas adjacent to core protected areas in order to apply in the adjacent areas all articles of Law 102, in particular Article 3; (d) Conducting a research on carrying capacity of the coral reef in the conditions prevailing in the Gulf of Aqaba coast; (e) Increasing protection of coral reefs: There is concern that increased activity by dive boats and snorkelers may exceed the sustainable level of reef access and existing staff capability for monitoring and enforcement. Protection of tlhe coral reefs should be enhanced through: (i) increase of the patrol staff and equipment (boats, cars, motorcycles, camels) to protect the coral reefs along the entire coast (including intensification of patrolling on Fridays and holidays); (ii) regulation of the visitor flow; (iii) signage and zoning imriprovement; and (iv) strengthening of coral reef monitoring in the Ras Mohammed National Park; 63 (f) Developing and implementing conservation guidelines outside the core protected areas: Such guidelines would help regulating tourist activities impacting the ecosystems, such as boating, fishing, diving, snorkeling, hiking, off-road driving, and jet and water skiing. The watercraft licensing and registration program proposed in the above paragraph should apply to all vessels operating in the near-shore waters of the Gulf; (g) Establishing and enforcing a licensing system for tourism activities in protected desert ecosystems, especially in desert areas close to coastal developments; (h) Assessing economic valuation of the park in relation to tourism developments: The core protected areas economic value and contribution to tourism revenues will be assessed. Diodiversity protection is of global benefit to the world community. However, the economic value of this common good is difficult to measure. There is a wide range of benefits of which the following are measurable: promotion of tourism industry, recreational activities, education and research. Beneficiaries of the protected areas include the tourism developers through promotion of tourism activities and provision of recreation to visitors; (i) Providing a communication system to facilitate coordination of EEAA, SSG, TDA and enforcement services actions; (j) In coordination with the University of Suez Canal, upgrading GIS capacity of RMNP as required and linking it to EEAA, IDSC, and SSG systems; (k) Restoring the scenic value of the desert ecosystem adjacent to primary tourist roads, in particular by: (i) screening to the extent possible the recently completed, intrusive high voltage power transmission line; (ii) limiting the practice of locating new construction in widely scattered open areas isolated from population centers, and (iii) initiating a program of requiring post-construction clean up and remediation of degraded landscape sites; and (1) Carrying out migration studies of birds using the Sinai's man made habitats as well as ringing studies including monitoring weighs and radio transmitted movements of the birds: Many migrants now depend on man made sites to rest and feed along the Sinai such as hotel grounds, sewage works, golf courses and rubbish tips without which many would not complete their migration and die. Surveys would provide information on site use. H. Public Awareness and Environmental Education 6.43 Effective conservation of the coastal ecosystems and the maintenance of a clean, litter free, environment required by tourism can only be possible with the full support of the government of Egypt together with the private sector and the general public, both resident and visiting. Consequently the GABAP will design environmental awareness programs (US$500,000) in partnership with local NGOs and the private sector. Environrmental education programs will be aimed primarily at local residents and tourists, as well as at policy- and decision-makers. 64 6.44 The action plan will: (a) prioritize environmental problems, such as disturbance and destruction of natural ecosystems, littering, etc., which should be redressed by public awareness initiatives; (b) identify the most effective means of bringing about public awareness and support, for example, by provision of site interpretation centers or displays, signboards, posters, media campaigns and instructional courses for schools and appropriate professional bodies; (c) identify local organizations to be involved in coordinating and contributing to these programs; (d) design an appropriate overall public awareness strategy and plan for the Aqaba coast; and (e) where necessary, strengthen institutional capabilities so as to facilitate implementation of the plan. I. Sustainability of the Environmental Protection of the Gulf of Aqaba 6.45 To ensure the sustainability of the environmental protection of the Gulf of Aqaba, funds from the Environmental Fund, generated by South Sinai Protected Areas, should be earmarked to cover annual recurrent costs of the protected areas ancl of the SS-RBO. To enable response to the increased stress on the ecosystems, resulting from intensive expansion of hotels and accompanying tourism activities, collection of other user fees, for reinvestment in core protected areas and environmental management, should be encouraged (e.g., bed environmental charge). An assessment will be carried out (US$100,000) to explore fee potential and determine appropriate operational procedures. In addition, public beach areas should be identified and managed (US$400,000) to allow for equitable access of the waterfront while safekeeping tourism investments. Finally, integration of native populations in the regional development process, as practiced in Nuweiba and the core protected areas, is an essential ingredient to overall sustainability. 6.46 On the other hand, if the actions recommended in this report are delayed or remain unimplemented, there is a very real risk that irreparable damage will be caused to the marine and desert environments. Such a damage is likely to have seriously negative repercussions on the tourism industry. 65 Annex 1 SELECTED LEGAL DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OF THE GULF OF AQABA COAST Annex 1-A: Law concerning Natural Protectorates Annex 1-B: Law for the Environment and its Executive Regulations Annex 1-C: Presidential Decree concerning the Organization of the General Authority for Tourism Development, and Law concerning Rules related to the State Private Property 66 Annex la LAW CONCERNING NATURAL PROTECTORATES - 102/1983, July 20,1983 Article 1 In implementing the articles of this Law, a natural protectorate is defined as any area of land, or coastal or inland water characterized by flora, fauna, and natural features having cultural, scientific, touristic or esthetic value. These areas wi]l be designated and delineated by decree of the Prime Minister upon the recommendation of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency. Article 2 It is forbidden to commit actions (deeds or activities or undertakings) which will lead to the destruction or deterioration of the natural environment or harm the biota (terrestrial, marine or fresh water), or which will detract from the esthetic (beauty) standards within protected areas. In particular, the following acts are forbidden: a- catching, transporting, killing or disturbing wildlife; b- damaging or removing any living organisms or natural features and resources, such as shells, corals, rocks, or soil fDr any purpose; c- damaging or removing plants (from) the protected areas; d- spoiling or destroying the geological structures (and other features) of areas serving as natural habitats and breeding areas for plants and animals; e- introducing foreign (non-indigenous) species of biota into the protected area, and; f- polluting the soil, water, or air of the protected areas in any manner. It is also forbidden to erect buildings and establishments, pave roads, drive vehicles, or undertake any agricultural, industrial, or commercial activities in the protected areas except with the permission of the concerned administrative body and restrictions specified by the Prime Ministerial decree. Article 3 It is forbidden to undertake activities or experiments in the areas surrounding designated protectorates, which will have an effect oni the protectorate's environment and nature, except with the permission of the concerned administrative body. 67 Annex la Article 4 The administrative body (responsible for the enforcement of the provisions of this law and related decrees) will be specified in a separate decree issued by the Prime Minister. This administrative body will be empowered to establish regional offices within the governorates having protectorates, and will be responsible for the following functions: a- preparation and execution of necessary studies and programs to enhance protectorates; b- surveying and monitoring natural features and wildlife within the protectorates, and creating a registry of same; c- managing and coordinating activities related to the protectorates; d- exchanging information and experiences relevant to the protectorates and natural resources therein with other countries and international organizations, and; e- managing (operational) funds referred to in Article VI, below. Article 5 Societies for the protection of the environment, promulgated in accordance with national legislation, will be permitted to seek counsel with the concerned administrative and with the judicial bodies to implement the provisions of the laws and decrees concerning the protection of the natural resources of the protectorates. Article 6 A special fund will be established to collect donations, grants and (part) admission fees (as appropriate) as well as fines incurred by violators of this law. The fund will be used for the following purposes: a- supplementing the budget of the administrative body responsible for implementing the provisions of this law; b- enhancement of the protectorates; c- undertaking surveys and field research on natural resources within the protectorates, and; d- paying rewards to persons who provide information concerning offenses or who apprehend offenders who contravene the provisions of this law. Article 7 Notwithstanding a stronger penalty specified in another law, any person who contravenes the provision of Articles II and III of this law and the executive decrees associated with it, will be fined not less than L.E. 500 (five hundred Egyptian pounds) and not more than L.E. 5000 (five thousand Egyptian pounds) and/or will be imprisoned for not more than one year. Recurrent offenders will be fined not less than L.E. 3000 (three thousand Egyptian pounds) and not more than L.E. 10,000 (ten thousand Egyptian pounds) and/or will be imprisoned for not less than one year. 68 Annex la In addition to this, the offender will bear the cost of removal or reparations specified by the concerned administrative body or any of its regional offices. The administrative body's representatives will be empowered to confiscate equipment, weapons or tools used in committing the offense. Article 8 The fines and the cost of reparation will be collected through administrative procedures and without delay. Article 9 Competent officials of the concerned administrative body responsible for enforcing this law and the associated executive decrees will be designated in a decree (order) from the Minister of Justice upon consultation with the concerned minister, and shall be accorded magistrate-level judicial powers concerning violations specified in this law. Article 10 This law is to be published in the Official Gazette and will be enacted within three months of the date of publication. Issued at the presidency on July 18, 1983 (9 Shawwal 1403 H.) and signed by Hosny Mubarak. Ratified by the Egyptian Parliament (People's Assembly) and Senate (Shura Council) on July31, 1983. 69 Annex lb LAW FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND ITS EXECUTIVE REGULATIONS Content A: LAW FOR THE ENVIRONMENT: Section 1: Protection of the Land Environment from Pollution Section 3: Protection of the Water Environment from Pollution B: EXECUTIVE REGULATIONS RELATING TO E.I.A Section 1: Protection of the Land Environment from Pollution Chapter 1: Development and Environment Section 3: Protection of the Water Environment from Pollution Chapter 2: Pollution from the Land Based Sources 70 Annex lb A. LAW FOR THE ENVIRONMENT (Abstracts) Section 1 Protection of the Land Environment from Pollution Chapter One Development and Environment Article 19 An assessment of the environmental impact of establishments requiring licenses shall be undertaken by the competent administrative authority or the licensing authority. The study shall include the elements, designs, specifications and the bases as determined by EEAA in agreement with the competent administrative authority. The Executive Regulations of this Law shall specify the establishments that should comply with the regulations of this Article. Article 20 The competent administrative authorities, or the licensing authority shall send a copy of the environmental impact assessment study rnentioned in the previous article to EEAA in order to present its opinion. EEAA will submit suggestions required to be implemented in the field of preparations and systems necessary for treating negative enviromnental effects. Such authority will carry out and verify the implementation of EEAA's suggestions. EEAA is required to reply to the competent administrative authority or the licensing authority stating its opinion within a maximum of 60 days of receipt of the study, otherwise, the evaluation is considered to be accepted by EEAA. Article 21 The competent administrative authority shall inform the owner of the establishment of the result of the evaluation through a certified registered letter. The owner of the establishment may appeal such evaluation in writing within thirty days after receiving the evaluation results to a committee to be established by a decision from the Minister of Environmental Affairs. Representatives of EEAA, and the competent administrative authority or the licensing authority, and the owner of the establishment will be members of this committee. The Executive Regulations shall specify the assignments of this committee and its operating procedures as well as the complaint procedures. Article 22 According to the provisions of Law, owners of establishments shall keep written records of the environmental impact of their establishment's activities. The Executive Regulations will determine the standard form of the required written document as well as its time table to assure the compliance of establishments with such a record. EEAA is designated to review the data of these written records to ensure that they are truthful, to take the required samples, to analyze them, and to measure the environmental impact of the norms established for the protection of the environment. In case of any violation, EEAA will notify the competent administrative authority to mandate the owner of the 71 Annex lb establishment to rapidly correct these violations. If the owner does not comply within 60 days from the date of the notification, EEAA in agreement with the competent administrative authority, will take the required legal and legislative procedures to shut down the activities of the establishment and will request adequate compensation to treat the harm resulting from these violations, Article 23 Extensions and renovations of existing establishments shall be subject to the same rules mentioned in Article 19,20,21 and 22 of this law. 72 Annex lb Section Three Protection of the Water Environment from Pollution Chapter Two Pollutiork from Land Based Sources Article 70 There will be no licensing of establishments or stores on or near the sea shore that might result in discharging polluting substances in violation of this Law and its implementing decrees, unless the applicant for the license has conducted environmental impact studies and has made available waste treatment units which must start operating as soon as these establishments commence working. Article 71 The Executive Regulations of this Law shall define the specifications and norms which must be compiled with by industrial establishments allowed to discharge treated degradable polluted substances. The administrative authority specified in the said Executive Regulations shall perform periodic analyses in its laboratories for samples of the treated wastewaters and notify the competent administrative authorities of the results. In case of violations, the concerned party shall be given a period of one month to treat its wastes to conform with the said specifications and standards. If treatment is not completed within its period or if analysis proves that continuing disposal may cause harm to the water environment, disposal shall be ceased through administrative procedures and the license issued to the establishment revoked without prejudice to the penalties mentioned in this Law. In addition, the Executive Regulations shall specify the non-degradable polluting substances which are prohibited for discharge into the water environment. Article 73 It is forbidden to construct any establishment within 200 meters of the Egyptian coast line without the permission of the concerned administrative authority and in coordination with EEAA. The Executive Regulations of this Law shall regulate the procedures and the conditions that shall be followed in such cases 73 Annex lb B. EXECUTIVE REGULATIONS OF LAW FOR THE ENVIRONMENT RELATING TO EIA Section 1 Protection of the Land Environment from Pollution Chapter One Development and Environment Article 10 The competent administrative body or the body that grants permits shall assess the environmental impact of establishments that are requesting permits, according to the elements, designs, specifications and bases which are issued by the EEAA in agreement with the competent administrative body and which shall be reviewed by the EEAA, whenever necessary. Article 11 The provisions of Article 10 of these Executive Regulations shall apply to the establishments given in Annex 2 of these Executive Regulations. Article 12 It shall be mandatory for permit applicants to attach to their applications a statement, duly filled out, containing the data included in the form prepared by the EEAA in agreement with the competent administrative authority. The EEAA shall prepare a register including copies of this and the assessment results as well as the EEAA requirements from establishment owners. Article 13 The EEAA may resort to any experts whose names are included in a list to be issued by the EEAA according to the criteria set by the EEAA's Board of Directors, so that such experts may give their opinions on the assessment of the environmental impact of an establishment intended to be constructed and for which a permit is being requested. Article 14 The competent administrative body shall notify owners of establishments of the assessment results by registered letter with return receipt requested. The owner is entailed to object in writing to this result before the Permanent Review Committee within a period of thirty days from the date of his notification. This Committee shall be formed by decree by the competent Minister for the Environment. It shall be chaired by a Counselor from the State 74 Annex lb Council and the membership is as follows: a- A Representative from EEAA nominated by its Executive Head b- The establishment's owner or his representative with an official power of attorney. c- A representative from the concerned body or the body granting permits unless it is the competent body. d- Three experts to be selected as members of the Committee for three years upon their nomination by the WWAA 's Executive Head. The Committee may form, from among its members and others, sub-committees to study the objections referred to them and to present reports thereof to the Committee. The said Committee may also, when carrying out its duties, resort to whomever they consider advisable for that purpose. It shall issue its decision within sixty days firm the date of receipt of the completed objection documents. Article 15 The Permanent Review Committee, described above in Article 14 of these Executive Regulations, shall be concerned with hearing the objections to assessment results that are submitted or referred to it or with the proposals that require execution as deemed necessary by the EEAA. It shall issue its opinion regarding these objections with respect to the standards prescribed in Article 10 of these Executive Regulations. Objections shall resubmitted in writing to the EEAA and shall include the reasons for the objection and the legal and scientific grounds on which the project owner substantiates his objection. He shall also attach thereto the documents that he deem support the reasons for his objection. Article 16 The Committee shall convene upon an invitation from the EEAA's Executive Head within 15 days from the date of the EEAA's receipt of the written objection. A EEAA representative nominated by the Executive Head shall draw up the rneeting's minutes. He shall not have a vote in the discussions taking place. The Committee's decision shall be issued by a simple majority of votes. The meeting's minutes shall be signed by all attending members. Article 17 Establishment owners shall, according to the provisions of these Regulations, maintain a register to record the extent of their establishment's impact on the environment as follows: a- Emissions therefrom or discharges. b- Specifications of discharges after the treatment process, and the efficiency of utilized treatment units. c- Procedures of follow-up and environmental safety applied at the establishment. d- Periodical tests and measurements and their results. e- The name of the person in c harge of follow-up. f- The Register shall be prepared according to the form described in Annex 3 of these Executive Regulations. 75 Annex lb g- Establishment owners or their representatives are obliged to notify the EEAA immediately, by registered letter with return receipt requested, of any division in the criteria and specifications of emitted or discharged pollutants and the procedures taken to rectify them. Article 18 The EEAA Shall be competent for the follow-up of the registered data to ascertain its conformity with actual fact. It shall also take the necessary samples and conduct the appropriate tests that show the impact of establishment activities on the environment and establishment compliance with the criteria set for protecting the environment. Such follow-up shall be undertaken every year. A report on each follow-up shall be filed with the competent sector within the EEAA, shall be signed by the officer in charge of follow-up tests, and shall include dates. If any violations are discovered, the EEAA will notify the competent administrative authority which shall demand for the establishment's owner, by registered letter with return receipt requested , expeditious rectification of such violations according to industry norms. If he fails to accomplish this within 60 days, the Executive Head is entitled, in coordination with the competent administrative authority, to take the following measures: a- To close down the establishment; b- To suspend the damaging activity; c- To file a lawsuit demanding suitable compensation to remedy the damages resulting form the violation. Establishment shall maintain the registers, duly completed, on a permanent basis according to the form in Article 17 of these Executive Regulations. Whenever new data is registered, establishments shall maintain it for a period of ten years effective from the date of the signature of the EEAA representative in the register confirming its review. Article 19 Expansion or renewals of existing establishments are subject to the same provisions as prescribed in Article 19,20, 21 and 22 of the aforementioned Law for the Environment. Charges in production patterns of the operating machines or an increase in the number of staff in a way that exceeds the capacity of the working place or any essential modifications to an establishment's buildings are considered to be expansions and renewals. Particularly. Essential modifications concerning the ventilation system or the change of work location or other similar modifications that may result in harmful effects on the environment or on the establishment's staff, are considered to be expansion and renewals. 76 Annex lb Section 3 Protection of the Water Environment from Pollution Chapter Two Pollution from Land Based Sources Article 57 It is mandatory to issue a permit for construction of any installations or stores on or near the seashore that results in drainage of polluted materials in violation of the provisions of this Law, and of these Executive Regulations, and of the decrees issued for their implementation, so as to give due consideration to the articles of Section 1 Chapter I of these Executive Regulations. Permit owners shall provide suitable and adequate units for waste treatment. They shall begin operating them at the same time as starting to operate these installations. Furthermore, they shall secure their safety and maintain them periodically. Article 58 Without Prejudice To Article 2 Of The Decree Issuing These Executive Regulations, Industrial Establishments That Are Authorized To Drain Decomposable Pollutant Substances Into The Water Environment And Beaches Adjacent Thereto, Shall Not Drain These Substances Excepi After Treating Them In Accordance With The Specifications And Criteria Prescribed In Annex 1 Of These Executive Regulations. The Ministry of Health laboratories shall carry out periodic analyses of treated liquid waste sample and notify the competent administrative body of the results of these analyses. In case the result of analysis do not conform to specifications and criteria as prescribed in Annex 1, the EEAA shall be notified to take administrative procedures, jointly with the competent administrative body. They will consider granting the concerned party, who holds a permit to perform his activities according to the provisions of these Executive Regulations, a grace period of one month to treat the waste so as to conform to the determined specifications and criteria. Due consideration will be given to the periods prescribed in Article 2 of the decree issuing these Executive Regulations with regard to establishments existing at the time of issuance. If treatment does not take place with in the period prescribed above, or if it is proved from the analysis during that period that the continuation of drainage is likely to cause harm and damage to the water environment, disposal of waste shall be administratively discontinued, and the permit issued for the establishment shall be withdrawn, without prejudice to the penalties prescribed in the Law for the Environment. Industrial establishments shall also be prohibits from drainage non-decomposable pollutant substances into the water environment as prescribed in Annex 10 of these Executive Regulations. 77 Annex lb Article 59 It shall prohibits to issue permits for the construction of any installations on the sea shores of the Arab Republic of Egypt up to a distance of two hundred meters inward from the shoreline, except after obtaining the approval of the Shore Protection Authority (SPA), in coordination with the EEAA. The following procedures shall be followed when issuing permits for the construction of these installations: a- The application shall be submitted in writing to the concerned coastal Governorate (the authority to grant the proposed permit) indicating the type of establishment to be built within the prohibited zone, provided that the application has an attached internal study assessing the environmental impact of the project or new workers required to be carried out, including their effect on the environmental balance of the coastal area, and on the shore line, and in particular the following factors: 1. Erosion 2. Sedimentation 3. Coastal currents 4. Pollution resulting from the project or works Along with the application there will be a detailed statement of precautions proposed to avoid or treat these effects as applicable. b- The coastal Governorate shall forward the applications to the Shore Protection Authority (SPA) to obtain its technical opinion concerning the project, in coordination with the EEAA. The coastal governorate shall also forward the study assessments for the project's environmental impact to the EEAA to review its opinion within sixty days from the date of its receipt. c- The Shore Protection Authority (SPA) shall charge the applicant with the relevant costs of surveys and studies to be carried out. The Competent Minister for Environmental Affairs, after consulting the competent administrative authorities as well as the concerned governorates, shall issue the conditions for granting the permit for construction an establishment within the prohibits zone, or one that modifies the shore line Article 60 It shall be prohibited a authorize carrying out any works that may affect the natural shoreline of the beach or modify it, whether inwardly into sea water or by taking from it, except after obtaining the approval of the Shore Protection Authority )SPA) in coordination with the EEAA. With regard to applications that may affect the natural shoreline of the beach or modify the same, the procedures and conditions prescribed in the previous article shall be applied. 78 Annex Ic PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 274/1991 CONCERNING THE ORGANIZATION OF THE GENERAL AUTHIORITY FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT The President of the Republic After reviewing the Constitution, The Law of General Authorities promulgated by Law No. 66/1963, Law No. 3/1973 concerning the supervision and utilization of tourist areas by the Ministry of Tourism, Law No. 53/1973 concerning the state budget, Law No. 7/1971 concerning some rules related to the state's private property, and The approval of the Council of Ministers, and Based upon the proposal of the State Council, Decrees Article 1 The General Authority for Tourism Development is a general economic authority with juridical identity. It shall be located in Cairo and subject to the Minister of Tourism and may establish branches in Governorates. Article 2 The Authority shall develop toUrist areas within the framework of the state's general policy and economic plans. To achieve its objectives, the Authority shall enter into dealings, contracts and actions and shall be particularly concerned with the following: a- To draw plans for the devtelopment of tourist Areas; b- To prepare, review and evaluate the programs, studies and projects necessary for the development of tourist aireas and to approve the same, and decide the priorities of their implementation.; c- To implement infrastructure projects in tourist areas; d- To collect recompenses of the Authority's development programs of tourist areas and the utilities and services submitted to the recipients; e- To enter into contracts fcor foreign and domestic loans and to be obliged to pay the sane within the framework of the adopted rules; f- To supervise the implementation of tourist development plans in tourist areas, and; g- To manage, utilize and deal with the lands allocated to establish tourist areas in desert lands. 79 Annex lc Article 3 The Authority's Board of Directors shall be chaired by the Minister of Tourism and shall comprise the following members: a- Three Governors to be chosen by the Head of the Council of Ministers; b- The concerned Governor in whose Governorate the reviewed tourist programs are located; c- The Executive Chainnan of the Authority; d- The Head of the concerned Legal Counsel Department at the State Council; e- Deputy Minister of Tourism; f- Representatives of the Ministries of Defense, Transport, Communications, Sea Transport, Finance, Planning, International Cooperation and Construction. The representative shall be chosen by their respective ministers and their ranks shall not be less than " Heads of Sectors", and; g- Three experts in the Authority's activities to be chosen by a Decree of the Head of the Council of Ministers for a period of two renewable years. Article 4 The Authority's Board of Directors is the supreme authority that governs its affairs and makes its general policy. It shall take necessary decisions to achieve the Authority's objectives including the following in particular: a- To draw the Authority's plans and action programs within the general framework of the state policy; b- To conduct researches and suggest legislations and systems pertaining to the realization of tourism development; c- To suggest the rules for collecting the recompenses of the Authority's development programs established by the authority in tourist areas.; d- These rules shall be issued by a decision of the Minister of Tourism approved by the Council of Ministers; e- To suggest the terms and conditions regulating the management; f- Supervision and disposal of the Authority's lands and properties. These terms and conditions shall be issued by a decision of the Minister of Tourism approved by the Council of Ministers; g- To put controls for building licenses in tourist areas; h- To make a system for the Authoritys money management and investment; i- To issue the Authority's by-laws and regulations as related to technical, financial and administrative affairs, purchases, warehouses, personnel as well as the regulations related to the Authoritys activities without having to be bound with govemmental rules and systems; j- To approve the draft annual budget and the draft final accounts of the Authority; k- To approve foreign and domestic loans; 1- To accept the gifts, donations and grants presented to the Authority which do not contradict its objectives to study and express the view point in draft agreements concerned with the Authority's activities, and; m- To establish branches for the Authority in Governorates. 80 Annex Ic Article 5 The Board of Directors shall meet by invitation of the Authority's Chairman once every three moths at least. Simple majority shall form the quorum of the meeting. Decisions shall be taken by the majority of the members attending the meeting. The Chairman shall cast the deciding vote if the votes are equally divided. The Board may invite experts from the Authority or from any other agency providing that they shall not have the right to vote. The Board's decisions and recommendations shall be conveyed to the Minister of Tourism within one week of their issuance date. They shall be valid if no objections are raised within fifteen days of their receipt. If objections are raised during this period, they will be resubmitted to the Board of Directors for reconsideration in light of the Minister's view point. If two thirds of the Board members insist on them, they shall be applicable without prejudice to Paragraph B of Article 6 of the above mentioned Law No. 7/19991. Article 6 The Chairman of the Authority shall be appointed by a Presidential Decree stating his financial remuneration, based upon a nomination by the Minister of Tourism. Article 7 The Chairman of the Authority shall be assisted by the Executive Chairman in running the Authority's affairs. The Executive Chairman shall also represent the Chairman of the Authority in courts and in managing the Authority's affairs wiith the other parties especially in the following: a- To implement the general policy as drawn by the Board of Directors to realize the Authority's objectives ancl to execute the Board's decisions; b- To supervise the Authority's actions and personnel performance; c- To supervise the Authority)s budget and final statements and to submit the same to the Board of Directors, and; d- To perform any other activities as designated by the Board Chairrnan. Article 8 The Authority's resources consist of the following: a- Amounts allocated for the Authority from the state budget; b- Revenues of the Authority's activities and recompenses of the works and services rendered by the Authority for other parties; c- Revenues from land selling and utilization as stipulated in Paragraph 4 of Article 4 of this Decree; d- Loans; e- Grants, gifts and aids, and; f- Investment revenues of the Authority's funds. Article 9 81 Annex Ic The Authority shall have an autonomous budget such as commercial budget. The Authority's fiscal year shall start with the state's fiscal year and end with it. The Authority's funds shall be deposited in a special account to be used for financing the Authority's objectives. Article 10 The Authority's funds are public funds. To preserve its rights, the Authority shall have the right to resort to immediate execution techniques including the implementation of administrative sequestration procedures. Article 11 This Decree shall be published in the official journal and shall come into force on the date following its publication. (Hosny Mubarak) 15 September 1991. CC the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation. 82 Annex lc MINISTRY OF TOURISM THE GENERAL AUTL[ORITY FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Memorandum Concerning the Establishment and Competence of the General Authority for Tourism Development Reports of the International Bank for Construction and other international financial institutions indicate that by the year 2000 tourism will be the first industry in the world and that it will represent the main source of free currencies for many countries. Moreover, the prospected income from tourism will exceed the income realized from the diff-rent industrial, agricultural and petroleum sectors. As Egypt possesses all the components and elements of tourism attraction which puts it on a distinguished competitive position on the map of international tourism, it has become inevitable to develop the tourism sector and to direct investments towards it as one of the top priorities to activate the national income, provide free currencies and create thousands of job opportunities for the youth directly and indirectly. As the provision of the infrastructure components is essential for the development of tourist projects, the international financial institutions and the World Bank in particular expressed their readiness to provide about US $ 500 mil lion as a participation in financing these projects, providing that the Ministry of Tourism has technical bodies able to make dialogue with these institutions and to shoulder the responsibilities of planning, implementation, evaluation and technical and economic follow- up of the infrastructure projects in the development areas in such a manner that secures their flexible and efficient management. The said bodies must also have the competence to collect recompenses for the utilization of these utilities, to allocate lands and to deal with them. In this context, the Minister of Tourism issued his Decision in June 1989 to establish a Tourism Development Unit as a nucleus for the General Authority for Tourism Development to start the dialogue with these international financial institutions and to accelerate development in the tourist areas. The Decision defined the competence of the said Unit as follows: a- To conduct and evaluate the studies of the tourism development projects and to promote them; b- To make the necessary financing plans from domestic and international sources, and; c- To study and choose the imost suitable offers for tourist investment. The Unit succeeded to cover a great deal of the preparation process for the infrastructure projects in tourist areas according to international specifications. It has also started to implement some projects through the scientific and developed techniques in this field. 83 Annex lc To emphasize the role played by tourism in the national economy, and to cope with the considerable development in tourism development on the global level, Law No. 7/1991 was promulgated to organize the rules related to the state's private properties which stipulates in its second article the establishment of a general authority for tourism development to manage, utilize and deal with the lands allocated for establishing tourist areas (enclosure No. 1). Then the Presidential Decree No. 274/1991 was issued to establish the General Authority for Tourism Development (enclosure No.2). The Decree gave the Authority large competence to achieve its objectives through technical bodies which secure the required flexibility and efficiency of the tourist development projects. To achieve its objectives, the Authority is entitled to enter into contracts with the foreign and international financial institutions, to collect recompenses against the utilization of the utilities, to allocate lands and deal with them by selling or any other transactions providing that it shall be obliged to repay the loans used for projects implementation, to realize the maximal revenue for the national economy in foreign currencies and to create job opportunities taking into account that the state budget shall not bear any burdens for the implementation of such projects. The matter is hereby submitted for consideration. Signed Hussein Badran Executive Chairman General Authority for Tourism Development 84 Annex Ic LAW NO. 7/1991 CONCERNING SOME RULES RELATED TO THE STATE PRIVATE PROPERTY In the name of the people The President of the Republic The People's Assembly has ratified and promulgated the following Law: Article 1 The provisions of this Law shall apply on the State Private Property. Article 2 The management and disposal of the desert lands subject to Law No. 143/1981 concerning the desert lands shall be according to the following: a- The President of the Republic based upon the approval of the Council of Ministers based upon the proposal of the Minister of Defense will issue a Decree to define the strategic zones of military importance in the desert lands which should be possessed. The Decree will include the rules governing these zones. b- Other than lands defined in Paragraph (A) the President of the Republic based upon the approval of the Council of Ministers based upon the proposal of the concerned Minister will issue a Decree to define the zones to be included in the land reclamation projects, the construction of new communities or the tourist areas. A general authority named "T'he General Authority for Tourism Development" shall be established by a presidential Decree to undertake the management, utilization and disposal of the lands allocated for establishing tourist areas. The General Authority for Agricultural Development Projects undertake the management, utilization and disposal of the lands allocated for reclamation and agricultural purposes. The Authority for New Communities undertake the management, utilization and disposal of the lands allocated for the construction of new communities. Each of the above mentioned Authorities shall practice its competence as related to the properties allocated to it in coordination with the MAinistry of Defense and according to the terms and conditions required for the state defense purposes. Article 3 85 Annex lc In all cases the lands of the lakes and the dried surrounding areas shall be for reclamation and agricultural purposes. The General Authority for Agricultural Development Projects shall undertake the management, utilization and disposal of these lands as well as the lands gained on the river banks and shall practice the competence of ownership concerning its various affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Public Works and Water Resources as concerning the lands gained on the river banks. Article 4 The Local Administration Units, each in its competency, shall undertake the management, utilization and disposal of the lands allocated for constructions which are either owned by the unit or by the state and the cultivable lands within their jurisdiction. The Governor, upon the approval of the Local Council based upon the rules stipulated by the Council of Ministers, shall put the rules to dispose of these lands. Priority of disposal shall be given to the Governorate's citizens residing in it and working in its jurisdiction. These rules may organize the cases where such lands are disposed of free of charge for construction, housing, reclamation, cultivation or any other purposes as decided by the Council of Ministers. As concerning the vicinity lands extending for two kilometers beyond the jurisprudence, they shall be reclaimed according to a national plan made by the Ministry of Land Reclamation and implemented by the same Ministry or by other parties designated in coordination with the concerned Governorate. The General Authority for Agricultural Development Projects shall undertake the management, utilization and disposal of these lands. The Council of Ministers shall decide the share of every Govemorate in the revenues from the management, utilization and disposal of these lands. The first Paragraph of this Article shall apply on the management, utilization and disposal of any areas of these lands reclaimed by the Governorate until the plan is put into action. Article No, 36 of the Local Administration Law promulgated by Law No. 43/1979 shall apply on the revenues which become due to the Governorate and the Local Administration Units from the management, utilization and disposal of these lands referred to in the above mentioned two paragraphs. Article 5 Lands subject to the rules of this Law shall not be utilized in any other purposes than those stipulated for them. Nevertheless, it is possible by a Presidential Decree based upon the approval of the Council of Ministers based upon the proposal of the concerned Minister - according to the case - to reallocate the land for any other party or for any other purpose. In Case There S A Conflict Between The Ministries, The General Authorities And The Local Administration Units Concerning The Designation Of The Party Concerned With The Management, Utilization Or Disposal Of Any Of The Said Lands Or Real Estates, The Subject Will Be Submitted To The Council of Ministers whose decision shall b obliging for all parties and shall apply on the conflicts arising between the said parties when this Law comes into effect. Article 6 86 Annex lc Decisions of the Boards of Directors of the above mentioned General Authorities in Article 2 of this Law shall be applicable according to the rules stipulated by their respective founding laws and decrees with the exception of the following: a- The decisions concerned with the competency of more than one Ministry, General Authority or any other administrative party must be reported to the Prime Minister for approval within a maximum of ten days of the issuance date. And they shall come into effect if no objection is raised against them after thirty days from the notification of the Prime Minster; b- The decisions stipulating the terms and conditions which organize the management, utilization and disposal of the lands and real estates allocated for the above mentioned Authorities shall not b applicable prior until they are approved by the Council of Ministers. Article 7 The revenues accrued to the General Authority for Tourism Development, the General Authority for Agricultural Development Projects and the General Authority for New Communities from the management, utilization and disposal of the lands allocated according to this Law, shall b considered public funds and a financial resource for each Authority. A decree of the Council of Ministers, based upon a proposal of the concerned Minister, shall be issued to define the purposes, rules and procedures for spending these revenues. The surplus mnoney shall be transferred annually to the public treasury. Article 8 Any article against the rules of this Law shall be null and void. Article 9 This Law shall be published in the official journal and shall come into force on the date following its publication. This Law shall be duly sealed by tde state's seal and shall be implemented as one of its laws. (Hosny Mubarak) 13 March 1991. 87 Annex 2 THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR ICZM Graph 1: Long-Term Development Objectives for the National ICZM Plan (page 2) Graph 2: ICZM Institutional Arrangement (page 3) ICZM INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENT 0 NATIONAL COMMITTEE E INTEGRATED COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT c NATIONAL LEVEL EEAA/ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SECTOR COASTAL AND MARINE ZONE MANAGEMENT (NCICZM/EEAA) GENTERAL DEP'r-T",ARTMENFfT | g CD REGIONAL CD 0, Mediterranean Coasts Department Red-Sea Coasts Department LEVEL Alexandria BMiddle Delta WestDelta Suez Canal Red Sea (EEAA) Branch Branch BraBranchBranc (Alexandria) (Tania) (Mansoura) ( Branch Brachd Port Said Suez LOCAL LEVEL I Alexandrla ^ | Dakahlia i m m | lSmailia k t Red Sea i (GOVERNORATE) Q | Matrouh i | Kafr El- i | Damietta| |Beheira Sheikh| N. Sinai L- S.Sin-ai- Proposed Organizational Structure of CZMInstitutionalArrangementsi(LevelsnInterrelation) ) Long-Term Development Objectives Government Level NATIONAL ICZM PLAN M L ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Minister inQ Charge of the N Environment Medium TerL Objectives ____________ National -I. Committee for ICZM ISSUE: ICZM ISSUE: ICZM ISSUE: ICZM ISSUE: ICZM Shoreline Erosion & Irrational Land Use (Water) Pollution Deterioration of Natural . Y Flooding Resources & Habitats National Coastal & National Coastal & Ministries C National Shore Protection National Coastal Marine Water Quality Marine Preservation Plan Plan Land Use Plan Plan Top Down Initiative Selection of "HOT SPOT"Regions and Representative "HOT SPOTS" _nitiativ Short Term Objectives Cottom up l - ~~~~~~~~~~~ ~ ~~~~~Initiative rn ~Local mm.... _ _ _ ______uthorities Case Studies & Pilot Projects Representative for National and Regional Costal Management Problems Objectives and Approach for Development of National ICZM Plan for Egypt t 91 Annex 3 Projections of Hotel Capacity and Permanent Population Sharm El Sheikh Ratios 1997 2002 2017 TDA Rooms 385 4,765 6,975 Employees 1.5 578 7,148 10,463 Municipality Rooms 4,500 8,500 12,500 Hotel Employees 1.3 5,850 11,050 16,250 Tourist Related Employment 1.0 6,428 18,198 26,713 Dependents 0.1 643 1,820 2,671 Existing 7,700 9,800 13,900 Total Municipality 21,000 41,000 60,000 Total Resident 22,000 48,000 70,000 Dahab Ratios 1997 2002 2017 TDA Rooms 0 1,500 2,450 Employees 1.5 0 2,250 3,675 Municipality Rooms 900 2,000 5,000 Hotel Employees 1.3 1,170 2,600 6,500 Tourist Related Employment 1 1,170 4,850 10,175 Dependents 0.1 117 485 1,018 Existing 4,000 4,600 5,900 Total Municipality 6,000 13,000 24,000 Total Resident 6,000 15,000 28,000 Nuweiba Ratios 1997 2002 2017 TDA Rooms 600 3,790 5,685 Employees 1.5 900 5,685 8,528 Municipality Rooms 600 750 1,250 Hotel Employees 1.3 780 975 1,625 Tourist Related Employment 1 1,680 6,660 10,153 Dependents 0.1 168 666 1,015 Existing 4,500 5,200 6,600 Total Municipality 7,000 14,000 19,000 Total Resident 8,000 20,000 28,000 Tabs Ratios 1997 2002 2017 TDA Rooms 100 6,385 9,575 Employees 1.5 150 9,578 14,363 Municipality Rooms 270 1,250 2,500 Hotel Employees 1.3 351 1,625 3,250 Tourist Related Employment 1 501 11,203 17,613 Dependents 0.1 50 1,120 1,761 Existing 1,500 1,700 3,300 Total Municipality 2,000 16,000 26,000 Total Resident 2,000 26,000 40,000 TOTAL Ratios 1997 2002 2017 Tourist Areas Rooms 1,085 16,440 24,685 Employees 1.5 2,000 25,000 37,000 Municipality Rooms 6,270 12,500 21,250 Employees 1.3 8,000 16,000 28,000 Tourist Related Employment 1 10,000 41,000 65,000 Dependents 0.1 1,000 4,000 6,000 Existing 18,000 21,000 30,000 Total Municipal Population 37,000 82,000 129,000 Total Permanent Population 39,000 107,000 166,000 93 Annex 4 IMPACTS OF THREATS TO CORAL REEFS AND OPTIONS FOR THEIR MANAGEMENT A. Impact of Commercial and Recreational Activities and Possible Management Responses Construction (tourist facilities, research facilities, navigation aids, etc.) Has immediate mechanical impact. May alter water flow around the reef and thus change a major ecological factor. May shade reef locally, reducing photosynthesis. May become a point source of pollution and littering. Should be the subject of prior environmental assessment. Anchor Damage Breaks or damages corals. Some designs, notable plough anchors, are particularly destructive. For small boats a sand bag can be an effective and relatively undamaging temporary anchor. At intensively used reefs compulsory anchoring areas or compulsory moorings may be necessary. Diver Damage Almost all diving results in minor unintentional damage to corals and other reef biota; at frequently dived sites this damage can become significant and can lead to local loss of fragile species. On intensively used reefs periodic closure to allow recuperation of dive areas may be needed. Small Boat Damage In the case of small boats with inexperienced boat handler grounding on reefs can cause considerable physical damage to shallow areas, particularly at low tide. On intensively used reefs a system of designated boat channels and moorings to keep boats away from shallow, fragile areas may be necessary. Reef Walking Walking on reefs at low tide is a popular method of reef viewing which inevitably causes some . physical damage. In areas with a highly developed cover of fragile corals, severe damage to corals can occur. Reef walking should be controlled and a system of periodic closure for recuperation may be necessary. 94 Annex 4 Boulder Moving Reef walkers move or overturn boulders to view animals beneath them; if the boulders are not replaced these animals are likely to die. Boulder replacement is an essential element of education and interpretation. Shell collectors may use crowbars and hammers to break away pieces of reef when hunting shells. Boulder movement and damage to corals should be regulated. Education and interpretation activities should be supervised by the conservation staff. Destructive shell collecting should be banned. B. Impact of Fishing asnd Collecting Activities on Coral Reefs and Possitile Management Responses Collection of Corals and Shells by Toujrists Should be discouraged. Collection of Corals and Shells for Commercial Purposes May be a sustainable small scale fishery, particularly near tourist areas. Spearfishing Use of SCUBA for this purpose should not be permitted. Should be discouraged. Conflicts with underwater photography and fish watching. Collection of Aquarium Fishes Needs careful control. Can be a sustainable fishery. In time may be replaced by mariculture Collection of Reef Materials (Coral, Sand, or Shell) for Construction Needs careful control. Unlikely to be a sustainable industry. Commercial Line Fishing Can delete stocks of certain fishes (groupers, snappers, trigger fishes) and cause their local extinction. Generally compatible with reef conservation objectives if restricted to open waters off reefs. Needs careful control. 95 Annex 4 Commercial Trawling Can cause severe local damage to nontarget seabed communities and in particular to stocks of young fish. Can cause severe local physical modification to the structure of the seabed. Needs careful evaluation to determine a truly sustainable level. Fishing with Explosives Highly destructive to the reef structure and community. Should not be permitted under any circumstance. Fishing with Poison Highly destructive to the reef system. May be sustainable in stable traditional fisheries using 'natural' poisons. Should not be introduced. Use of modem chemicals should not be permitted. New Fishing Techniques Before being introduced, any new technique should be carefully evaluated to determine its ecological impact and sustainability. C. Impact of Pollutants and Thier Effects on Coral Reefs Herbicides May interfere with basic food chain processes by destroying or damaging zooxathellae in coral, free living phytoplankton, alfal or sea grass plant communities. Can have serious effect at very low concentrations. Pesticides May selectively destroy or damage elements of zooplankton or reef communities; planktonic larvae are particularly vulnerable. May accumulate in animal tissues and affect physiological processes. Sediments Smother substrate. Smother and exceed the clearing capacity of some filter-feeding animals. Reduce light penetration, which may alter vertical distribution of plants and animals on reefs. May absorb and transport other pollutants. 96 Annex 4 Sewage and Detergents May interfere with physiological processes. Sewage, Nutrients, and Fertilizers May stimulate phytoplankton and other plant productivity beyond the capacity of control by grazing reef animals and thus modify the community structure of the reef system. May cause eutrophication and consequent death of reef organisms. Petroleum Hydrocarbons Have been demonstrated to have a wide range of potential damaging effects at different concentrations. 97 Annex 5 WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM In order to provide the information necessary for environmental management the monitoring program for the marine water body of the Gulf of Aqaba must produce: * Measurements of the current environmental quality of the water system. * Quantification of all significant pollution discharges, directly or indirectly, into the body of water. * Data enabling the authority to estimate effects of possible pollution abatement measures, and also to estimate effects of increase pollution loading. In marine ecosystems, changes in pollution loading may not affect environmental quality for many years or even decades. Consequently, the monitoring program should continue to collect data by standardized methods for many years so as to establish the time series necessary to identify and evaluate changes in the monitored environmental quality. The proposed monitoring program would not focus only on biological phenomena but would include measurement of physical, chemical, and biological elements, which are of special importance to the biology of the Gulf and which can be related to pollution loadings. However, the monitoring program should be coordinated with biological monitoring programs of, for example, coral reef ecosystems, fisheries and beach monitoring activities. In view of recent developments it may be necessary to undertake specific assessment of the status of planktonic and sessile filamentous green algae. If possible, the monitoring program should be coordinated with similar programs in other riparian nations. This would improve the value of monitoring programs in all countries riparian states. The program should include elements designed to assess specific problems associated with pollution impacts. Typically these special investigations are short term studies, which are terminated when the specific problem has been solved. 1. Examples of such investigations are: * Clarification of the extent of phosphate in water from phosphate dust from Aqaba in the Taba area. * Improvement of the water quality model through further hydrographic measurements. * Measurement of seepage of pollutants through soil to the Gulf of Aqaba marine environment. 98 Annex 5 * Estimation of the quantity and impact of spills of organic matter and nutrients in the harbors. * Measurement of the levels of water treatment plant and septic tank effluent reaching the marine environment through seepage. 2. The Content of the Monitoring Program The proposed monitoring program at sea would include physical, chemical, and biological measurements at 6 stations along the coast (50 m depth) and at two stations in the deepest part of the Gulf with a monitoring frequency of one sample per month. Measurements and sampling should include the whole water, column from surface to bottom. Key parameters to be monitored include: * Temperature * Salinity * Transparency * Chlorophyll * Nutrients. Great precision will be necessary in chemical analysis due to the extremely low background concentrations of naturally occurring pollutants (especially nutrients) in the Gulf of Aqaba waters. 3. Reporting Annual reports should present the main results of the monitoring program, evaluations of causal relationships and of changes in pollution loadings and effects. When appropriate, results from related studies and investigations should also be included. 4. Revision For Monitoring Program Revisions of the program should be considered only with due consideration to the reduced value of measurements which are not produced as part of a long term continuous and standardized monitoring program. 5. Organization The EEAA should be responsible for implementing the program, for drawing conclusions based on the results, and should decide upon any modifications of the monitoring program and on specific actions necessary to reduce pollution impact. 99 Annex 6a A. Revenue from Tourism (1 996) Sharm el Sheikh Gulf of Aqaba Entire Egypt (2)1(3) Ref. Parameters Sector Egypt (1) (2) (3) % (a) Hotel Rooms unit 4,885 7,355 68,000 11 (b) Hotel Beds unit 9,770 14,710 136,000 11 (c) Occupancy percent 70% 70% 46% (d) Visitor Nights million 2.5 3.8 23 16 (e) Visitors thousand 350 500 3500 14 (f) Nights per Visitor unit 7.1 7.5 6.6 (g) Spending per Night per Visitor US$ 60 55 148 (h) Total Revenue USS million 150 207 3,400 6 columns (1) and (2): column (3): (a): estimate (a): official statistics (b)=(a)*2 (b)=(a)*2 (c): estimate (c)=(d)1365/(b) (d)=(b)*365*(c) (d): official statistics (e): estimate (e): official statistics (f)=(d)/(e) (f)=(d)/(e) (g): estimate (g)=(h)/(d) (h)=(d)*(g) (h): official statistics 100 Annex 6b B. Projection of Revenue from Tourism for the Coast of Aqaba l - I 1996 1 2002 I 2017 Hotel Capacity (a) Hotel Rooms unit 7,365 28,940 45,935 (b) Hotel Beds unit 14,710 57,880 91,870 Revenue based on 1996 performance (c) Occupancy percent 70% 70% 70% (d) Visitor Nights millioni 3.8 14.8 23.5 (e) Visitors thousand 500 2000 3100 (f) Nights per Visitor unit 7.5 7.5 7.5 (g) Spending per Night US$ 55 55 55 (h) Total Revenue US$ million 207 813 1291 Revenue based on diminishing performance (c) Occupancy percent 70% 60% 60% (d) Visitor Nights million 3.8 12.7 20.1 (e) Visitors thousand 500 1700 2700 (f) Nights per Visitor unit 7.5 7.5 7.5 (g) Spending per Night US$ 55 45 35 (h) Total Revenue US$ million 207 570 704 (a): estimate (e): estimate (b)=(a)*2 (f)=(d)/(e) (c): estimate (g): estimate (d)=(b)*365*(c) (h)=(d)*(g) 101 Annex 7 SITUATION AND PERSPECTIVES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ON THE EGYPTIAN COAST OF AQABA GULF 102 Annex 7 Table of Contents 1. TRUNK INFRASTRUCTURE .....................................1 03 1.1 ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION .................................... 103 1.2 WATER RESOURCES AND SUPPLY ...................................... 104 1.3 SANITATION AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT .................................... 105 1.4 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................... 105 1.5 POWER SUPPLY .................................... 107 1.6 TELECOMMUNICATIONS ..................................... 108 1.7 AIRPORTS .................................... 108 1.8 PORTS .................................... 108 1.9 DISASTER MANAGEMENT .................................... 109 1.10 HOUSING AND OTHER URBAN SERVICES .................................... 110 2. SHARM EL SHEIKH .....................................111 2.1 GENERAL .....................................111 2.2 ROADS .....................................111 2.3 WATER RESOURCES AND SUPPLY .................................... 112 2.4 SANITATION AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT .................................... 114 2.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................... 115 2.6 POWER SUPPLY .................................... 116 3. DAHAB .................................... 116 3.1 GENERAL .................................... 116 3.2 RoADS .................................... 116 3.3 WATER RESOURCES AND SUPPLY .................................... 117 3.4 SANITATION AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT .................................... 118 3.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................... 118 3.6 POWER SUPPLY .................................... 119 4. NUWEIBA .................................... 120 4.1 GENERAL .................................... 120 4.2 ROADS .................................... 120 4.3 WATER RESOURCES AND SUPPLY .................................... 120 4.4 SANITATION AND WASTEWATER MIANAGEMENT .................................... 121 4.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................... 122 4.6 POWER SUPPLY .................................... 123 5. TABA .................................... 123 5.1 GENERAL ........................ . 123 5.2 ROADS ........................ 123 5.3 WATER RESOURCES AND SUPPLY ........................ 124 5.4 SANITATION AND WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT .................................. 124 5.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT .................................. 124 5.6 POWER SUPPLY .................................. 125 103 Annex 7 SITUATION AND PERSPECTIVES FOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ON THE EGYPTIAN GOLF OF AQABA COAST 1. TRUNK INFRASTRUCTURE 1.1 Roads and Transportation 1.1.1 Existing Situation The existing 1,650 kms of trunk roads are maintained by the Roads and Bridges Department of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and by the Governate's Roads Section. The SRA often carries out this maintenance which is done by their Ismailia branch as the El Tur office lack the capacity to do this. The SRA also constructs roads, mainly to open up land for development. In South Sinai this is mainly for tourism. The 300 kilometers of SRA Roads officially fall under the jurisdiction of the municipalities but are maintained by the SRA. The municipalities are responsible for building and maintaining the secondary and tertiary road networks in their towns. Most of the town roads are surfaced, but in Sharm El Sheikh souk area, many roads are unpaved. Many tourist developments have extensive private road systems. Most roads are two lane single carriageway, although there are dual carrigeways in Sharm El Sheikh and some other towns. The standard road widths are six meters for municipal roads, seven meters for SRA and trunk roads, with dual sections being 14 meters. In general the condition of the road surfaces is good. This is possibly due to the lack of rainfall as well as relatively few heavy vehicles plying the roads. Public transport is very limited at present with only a few public bus services. 1.1.2 Proposed Projects Although no major trunk roads are planned, it is proposed to upgrade and widen some roads. A new road from Taba to the Mediterranean Sea will run parallel to the Israeli border in North Sinai. SRA plan to build 40 kilometers of access roads to tourist sites in Sharm El Sheikh and improve the airport road. 1.1.3 Key Issues Roads are key factors in forming and guiding development. New roads into environmentally sensitive areas require special controls on development. In Sharm El Sheikh roads have been constructed along the coast from Ras Mohammed Park boundary to Nabq protected area and the whole coastline will soon be fully built up with all the environmental implications entailing from this development. The road from Sharm El Sheikh to Nuweiba is inland and provides limited access to the coast and little development has taken place there. The proximity of the Nuweiba to Taba road to the coast has, and continues to, spawn tourism developments along that whole section of the coast. 104 Annex 7 While government may fund roads to stimulate investment, the pace of development in South Sinai indicates that access roads could be constructed by developers rather than SRA. If constructed to government standards, they could subsequently be "adopted" by the government for maintenance. This would release government for upgrading and maintaining municipal roads. Road design, particularly junction layouts and signing, needs to be modified to improve safety. 1.2 Wlater Resources and Supply 1.2.1 Existing Situation Water resource management and flood protection are dealt with by the Ministry of Public Works and Water Resources (MoPWWR). Technical aspects of water supply and wastewater management come under the Nationa] Organization of Potable Water and Sewage Department (NOPWASD) of the MoHUUC Water is supplied by a combination of desalination and fresh and brackish wells. The former being the major source. Responsibility for water supply ranges from the military to the private sector. Desalination plants, wells and distribution networks are owned and operated by both government and private operators with private operators supplying tourist developments and government municipal areas. Water quality standards, are based on WHO guidelines, are provided by NOPWASD. These suggest 60-100 liters per capita per day for urban residents, 500 liters per guest for five star hotels, 400 and 300 liters per guest for 4 and 3 star hotels respectively. The hotel figure includes water for staff living in the hotel. Although national tariff standards exist, these do not seem to be applied evenly. 1.2.2 Proposed and Ongoing Projects A 400 kilometer, 300 mm diameter pipeline to pump water from the Nile is under construction' to supply Sharm El Sheilch. It has a capacity of 20,000 m3/day but it will supply only 10,000 m3/day initially due to supply limitations from the Nile. The cost is estimated at MEL 130 and completion is due in late 1997. The MoPWWR are developing fossil wells about 23 kilometers from Nuweiba to supply that town. 1.2.3 Key Issues Providing sufficient water is the major limiting factor for development in South Sinai. The new Nile supply will help Sharm El Sheikh, but most water demands will still have to be met through expensive desalination plants where production costs are around seven pounds per cubic meter2 excluding capital costs. This compares to around 0.5 pounds per cubic meter3 in Cairo for treated Nile water. The 60-100 lcd for water supply is not achieved in most of the towns and as population grows, water supply will continue to lag behind growth. .'Information from SRA. 2 " Care Services Dahab. 3 " EEAA, Cairo. 105 Annex 7 Desalination plants produce concentrated brine effluent. This is usually piped out to sea over the coral reef. The chemicals added to stabilize the seawater mean the brine contains nitrogen and phosphates which could cause eutrophication. Unaccounted for water, particularly from municipal supplies, is estimated between 30 to 50 per cent which for a desalination plant producing 1,000 m3/day, an annual loss of up to 800,000 pounds per year. Most swimming pools use fresh water and there are already over 100 in Sharm El Sheikh alone. Evaporation exceeds precipitation by 3.5 meters per annum which combined with losses from the water recycling system can add up to five per cent losses per day. This means that each pool is refilled on average every 20 days. An average sized pool contains about 500 m3 of water thus requiring about 25,000 liters daily, equivalent to the water requirements of 50 guests in a five star hotel or about 300 to 400 urban residents. 1.3 Sanitation and Wastewater Management 1.3.1 Existing Situation All the areas have sewerage systems although the exact amount of connections is unknown. Areas which are not served by sewers mainly use septic tanks while temporary construction units either use some sort of communal system to a septic tank or a simple pit. There is little industrial wastewater. Treatment is by various means. Hotels usually have package plants with tertiary polishing of effluent. Municipal areas are served with oxidation ponds which are often under capacity or damaged. Effluent is mainly used for irrigation. Sludge is dried, mixed with sand and used as fertilizer. There are no laboratories for testing wastewater in the area. Proposed Projects are described in detail in the relevant sections below. 1.3.2 Key Issues The main issue with wastewater is that it should not enter the sea. With the desert conditions in the area this should not be a problem and the hotels which operate their own wastewater treatment systems use the effluent for irrigation. Much poorly treated municipal wastewater percolates into the groundwater table which removes most bacteria although chemicals in solution can ultimately reach the sea. The cost of tertiary treatment to polish the effluent to standards suitable for irrigation is high and while affordable to hotels it imposes a financial burden on the municipalities. 1.4 Solid Waste Management 1.4.1 Existing Situation This is the most noticeable infrastructure problem in the area. There are no sanitary landfill sites or effective garbage collection. Scavenging is carried out at dumpsites, usually by local Bedouins, which also provides food for camels. Much waste is currently dumped in wadis, which during flood periods deposit the waste into the sea, much of which is later washed back onto the shore. However, the municipalities realize the problem and would like to take action to improve things. 106 Annex 7 Hotels contract either Care Services or local Bedouins to collect and dispose of solid waste which is generally left at a dumpsite in the desert and burnt which produces noxious fumes. The Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Sharm El Sheikh dumps its waste in a site which is ringed by a fence to prevent scattering of waste by the wind. Most municipalities have trucks for collection which are supplied to the waste collection contractors, but not enough to meet requirements. With little industry in the area, hazardous or toxic wastes are not a problem. Clinical waste from the towns' health centers is supposed to be buried in pits or incinerated. 1.4.2 Proposed Projects Dahab Municipality has joined with two resorts to promote a solid waste management initiative. Money was collected from hotel owners and operators to rent bulldozers and trucks to clear waste which had been dumped in the wadi. A temporary site has been located and hotels asked to dump waste in this site until a permanent landfill site can be identified and developed. A public and tourist awareness scherLe for solid waste including sorting at source, recycling and waste minimization have also been irntroduced. "Roamers", whose livelihood is generated from solid waste management, will be brought from Cairo to assist in organizing solid waste collection, disposal and recycling. Other initiatives proposed are introducing recycled paper bags rather than plastic bags, improved hotel environmental management to reduce consumption, wastage and save costs and organizing hotels and NGOs in beach and public area clean ups. Estimated recycling income in Cairo is provided in the table below. Nuweiba Municipality would like also to implement a similar scheme once Dahab has initiated its program. Income from Waste Materials in Cairo Item Unit Sale Price in Egyptian Pounds Plastic Bottles Kg 0.80 Other Plastic Kg 0.60 Plastic Bags Kg 0.44 Glass per bottle 0.05 Copper Kg 3.00 Steel Kg 0.12 Aluminum Kg 1.00 Paper Kg 0.10 The Hilton Hotel has an environmental management program to reduce waste and conserve resources through a combination of actions, staff training and awareness. Garbage separation is being done by the hotel which has bought a plastic bottle shredder and "roamers" from Cairo to each of their hotels in South Sinai. The shredded plastic, including plastic bags, is taken to Cairo for recycling. 107 Annex 7 1.4.3 Key Issues Municipalities are responsible to "keep the city clean" and a two per cent tax on imputed property value is collected for waste management. Solid waste in urban Egypt is collected by "roamers" who have access to credit, storage and recycling facilities. This is more of a business rather than a municipal service and the two per cent tax only covers a small proportion of the costs of solid waste management. Such communities don't exist in the new urban areas in South Sinai. The local Bedouin conmmunity traditionally generated practically no waste as all goods were carried and food waste fed to camels and goats. In theory, there could still be zero solid waste generation in South Sinai. Organics could be fed to camels or composted as fertilizer. Plastics, glass and metals could be recycled. The arrangements are currently not in place for this to occur. This problem is also compounded by a lack of finance for, and awareness of, solid waste management in the municipalities and to a lesser extent in the tourism industry. The diving schools are more aware of enviromnental issues than the hotels. This is understandable as their livelihood depends upon the coral reefs. 1.5 Power Supply 1.5.1 Existing Situation The Ministry of Electricity (MoE) is responsible for power generation and high voltage transmission. Power in Egypt is generated mainly by thermal (diesel or gas) or hydropower. The latter comprises around 20 per cent of generation and has reached its capacity. Distribution companies, which come under the Ministry of Public Enterprises, are responsible for low voltage distribution and connections. In South Sinai the company is CANAL which is headquartered in Ismailia. Tariffs are fixed by the Council of Ministers and vary with type of activity and voltage. South Sinai is not yet connected to the national grid. There are four power stations, one for each town, which have their own network and serve all development including hotels, although most big hotels have standby generators. The total installed capacity of South Sinai is 154 MW, of which 80+ MW is in Sharm El Sheikh. Most power stations were initially diesel fired generators, but have been replaced with gas-turbines with the diesel as standby. Gas turbines require little cooling water, so small scale desalination plants have been constructed to provide coolant water. High voltage transmission is still above ground, but the MoE is cabling transmission in areas of natural beauty and has already done so in some areas. 1.5.2 Proposed Projects A project to link the area to the national and international grid is currently underway and should be complete in about one year. A 400 kvA line from Suez to Taba and then a 220 kvA line down the coast is planned. Four power lines and two telecommunications lines from Taba to Aqaba in Jordan have been laid across the Gulf. This will be used in both directions for power depending on peak loadings and generation capacity. With the connection to the grid no more power stations will constructed. It is proposed that the existing stations be used only as standby. 4This value is not index linked and rarely updated to reflect the actual market value of the property. Thus the 2% is a very low amount. 108 Annex 7 1.5.3 Key Issues With the connection to the national and international grids the power supply for the medium to long term is secure. This connection has meant construction of large overhead transmission lines which impact on the aesthetics of the area. No EIA for the cable laying to Jordan was carried out. 1.6 Telecommunications The Gulf of Aqaba Coast is connected by microwave stations to the exchange in El-Tur which has 9,200 lines. There are plans to extend this system substantially to accommodate the growth. It is not know if a mobile phone network is proposed for the area. 1.7 Airports 1.7.1 Existing Situation There are five airports in South Sinai, two of which are near the Aqaba coast at Sharm El Sheikh and El Nabak (Taba). Sharm El Sheikh is an international airport. Taba is only used at the peak season for domestic flights tc Cairo. 1.7.2 Proposed Projects A new international terminal for Sharm El Sheikh airport is planned along with a lengthening of the runway to accommodate larger aircraft. The El Nabak airport has been renamed Taba Airport and is being upigraded to handle more flights. A presidential decree for a new airport between Dahab and Nuweiba has been signed. The site is 20 kms inland towards the road as the coastal areas are protected and it is expected to open around 2001. 1.7.3 Key Issues The extension of Sharn El Sheikh Airport along with the construction of two new airports at Nuweiba and Taba will substantially increase the number of passengers and tourists to the region. In particular, the Taba and Nuweiba airports will provide quick weekend access to Cairo residents for the many villa and timeshare enterprises being developed in that area. 1.8 Ports 1.8.1 Existing Situation There are two major ports in the area at Sharm El Sheikh and Nuweiba. Sharm El Sheikh port is divided into a naval port, which also handles cruise ships, and the yacht harbor. The port receives about 35,000 tourists per year from an average of 500 ships. Water is supplied from the desalination plant in Sharm El Sheikh. Ship waste is disposed of at a waste facility in Suez. The other harbor, Sharm El Moya, serves around 300 yachts and diving boats in Sharm El Sheikh with repair and dry dock facilities. Water supply averages 30 m3/day and is taken from the old El-Tur to Sharm El Sheikh pipeline. Oil is separated from bilge and used in the dry dock. Care Services is contracted by both ports to collect locally generated garbage. 109 Annex 7 Nuweiba Port is the Egyptian end of the "Boat Bridge" to Aqaba in Jordan and comes under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications. The port averages 1.25 million passengers a year. Ships dispose of their waste and bilge water in Aqaba, but Nuweiba port still generates one ton of garbage per day. Care Services has a contract with the city council to clean the port area. 1.8.2 Proposed Projects No major port projects are proposed. As the number of hotels and villas expand, this will be reflected in increased numbers of small boats. Nuweiba port is influenced by the possibility of opening a direct transit road from Egypt to Aqaba via Eilat which would substantially reduce the amount of port traffic. However, in the short to medium term it is expected that the port will continue to handle a slightly increasing number of passengers annually. 1.8.3 Key Issues In Sharm El Sheikh there are many complaints about pollution in the harbor. The harbor master states that this was inherited from the Israelis and there are still signs from that time stating that the water is unsafe for swimming. In Nuweiba, indiscriminate disposal of waste by ferry passengers being washed onto the beaches is a major issue. 1.9 Disaster Management 1.9.1 Flooding Although the area receives minimal rainfall, the few winter storms can cause severe damage to roads and housing when the run-off from the mountains concentrates in the wadis and surges to the sea. With much of the available land already used for tourism or municipal developments, unplanned development occurs along the wadis and much damage has already occurred, particularly in Dahab and Nuweiba. Many existing solid waste dumps are also in these wadis and the garbage is carried to the sea by these winter floods. Two dams have been constructed across Wadi Al'at above Naama Bay in Sharm El Sheikh at a cost of nine million pounds to prevent flash floods in the area and store water for construction use. Six million pounds was provided by private sector developers and three million by the Govemate through the MoPWWR. 1.9.2 Earthquakes A 1992 earthquake caused little damage and most of the buildings badly affected had been constructed using concrete mixed with seawater. Clearly, all structural designs should include earthquake resistance. 1.9.3 Marine Pollution Maritirne incidents, particularly oil spills, could be a major hazard. The Government has developed an oil spill response organization in Ras Mohammed National Park. 1.9.4 Ongoing and Proposed Projects A study is underway by the Water Resources Research Institute (WRRI) for the South Sinai Water Resources Development Project. They are developing a hydrogeological database 110 Annex 7 and flood control guidelines for South Sinai with assistance from the Japanese Government. In Wadi Watir, which divides Nuweiba town, a three component project designed by WRRI is under implementation: * Construction of 17 flood mitigation dams with gabions and five storage dams, to regulate flood flows in this large wadi and also provide some water storage and recharge ground acquifers; * Development of fossil wells at Ein Furtaga to supply 1,800 m3/day of fresh water to Nuweiba with a potential to supply 3,000 m3/day. * Drilling of seven deep wells in the wadi to meet local Bedouin needs. The WRRI have also complet:ed a study for nine side dams to regulate flooding in Wadi Dahab above Dahab. 1.9.5 Key Issues Prior to development of the area flash floods posed little problem. With development and increased land values, flood protection has become a key issue with developers requesting government assistance for flood protection. The problem is particularly acute in Nuweiba, where the town is divided in two during storms by floods from Wadi Watir. A sand bund has been constructed, but a more permanent flc,od control structure is required. 1.10 Housing and Other Urban Services 1.10.1 Existing Situation The SSG has constructed over 9,000 housing units. Most of these are located in El Tur. There are about 600 units each in Sharm El Sheikh and in Nuweiba. In Nuweiba a few were damaged by the 1992 earthquake. Most of these houses are three or four story apartment blocks built to a standard design. In the commercial areas of the towns housing is built alongside the shops. Some are owner occupied, but many are rented out. 1.10.2 Ongoing Projects The private sector is constructing many houses and villas for high income groups. The Govemate has a housing program and intends to continue constructing apartment blocks. Much commercial development is also underway both in existing bazaars and adjacent to large tourist developments. 1.10.3 Key Issues Urban services and housing are seriously lacking and cannot meet existing demand. The large projected population growth will require massive investment in these services. In addition land, over and above that proposed for tourist development, will also have to be identified. Many people, particularly shopkeepers, other business and government employees are from 111 Annex 7 outside the area and view themselves as temporary residents. This serves to engender little community spirit and a general lack of "ownership" in the area. 2. SHARM EL SHEIKH 2.1 General The municipality of Sharm El Sheikh stretches 20 kilometers along the coast from Ras Mohammed National Park in the south to the airport in the north. Bounded by mountains to the west, the town can be split into six development areas- * the original souk and harbor area to the south of the city; * El Hadaba above the souk with municipal and commercial buildings; * El Amair with the medical center, government and private housing; * Ras Um Sadd on the promontory with large tourist developments; * Naama Bay with the main row of big hotels; and * north of Naama Bay which is undergoing tourist related development. Between this last area and Nabq protected area the land has been subdivided and sold by TDA. This area is also being rapidly developed. In 1986, the town comprised only the fishing port and commercial area and had an estimated population of 1,000. Since then rapid tourist development has occurred with over 65 hotels constructed with a bed capacity of around 33,000. This development has led to an influx of tourists, hotel employees and urban population necessary to service the hotels, tourists and their employees. 2.2 Roads 2.2.1 Existing Situation The main trunk road runs from the port to the airport over a distance of 20 kilometers and is maintained by the Roads and Bridges Department. The SRA maintain the access roads to many of the tourist areas. The municipality also maintains some roads but many, particularly in the souk area, are in poor condition. A new road has been constructed about three kilometers inland at the back of the town to serve as a by-pass road to Naama Bay from the south of the town. 2.2.2 Proposed Projects SRA proposed to construct about 40 kilometers of access roads to open up land for development. Much private road development is also taking place. *2.2.3 Key Issues Much construction work occurs very close to the shoreline and involves substantial cut and fill work which generates much dust, particularly from dump trucks driving at excessive 112 Annex 7 speed. This dust often blows directly onto the sea above the coral which can kill and inhibit regeneration of the reef. 2.3 Water Resources and Supply 2.3.1 Existing Situation Water is supplied by a complex combination of private and governnent agencies and by desalination plants, pipelines and tankers. The original desalination plant was built during the Israeli occupation after 1967. It lies adjacent to the harbor and uses a vacuum vapor process (VVC). The original capacity was 1,750 m3/day (two x 200 m3/day units plus two x 400 m3/day and one x 550 m3/day unit), but is presently producing 400 m3/day. A Finnish grant was used to construct a 500 m3/day VVC plant near the airport. It is under repair and will supply 350 m3/day. SSG contract Care Services to carry out operation and maintenance of both these desalination plants and the distribution networks. A pipeline from wells near F,l Tur was constructed in 1967 and this supplies 1,000 m3/day. The military is responsible for its maintenance. There is a 5,000 m3 reservoir tank which receives water from the desalination plant and the pipeline which serves a network of about 8 km of pipes, also built after 1967. Care Services estimates about 50,000 people, including tourists, are served in Sharm El Sheikh by water of which 8,000 is by the municipal services. The municipal water is supplied free of charge. The South Sinai Water Compajny (SSWC) operate a reverse osmosis desalination plant at Naama Bay producing 7,000 m3/day. The plant serves around 35 hotels in Naama Bay and new resorts around the golf course through 20 kilometers of pipeline. Some hotels have their own backup or supplementary desalination plants. The Hilton has a 100 m3/day plant, Novotel 200 m3/day, Sunafir 400 m3/day and the MIovenpick, 300 m3/day. It is estimated by SSWC that the hotels can generate about 10,000 m3/day at present. The SSWC plant is one kilometer from the sea and operates with 6 staff. 18,000 m3/day of saline ground water (about 60,000 parts per million total dissolved solids (TDS)) is extracted from 80 meters depth. Effluent brine is piped out to sea over the reef. The power needs of 1.5 MW are met from the town's power supply, while SSWC use their own generators for pumping to the supply system. Operation and maintenance is carried out by a Gerraan company who also operate some hotel desalination plants. They are responsible for the upkeep of the private networks. Treatment is based on achieving standards which are tested twice per month. The SSWC retail their water at 11 pounds per mi3. Approximately another 6,000 m3/day is tankered ftom the wells at El Tur and used mainly for construction work and laborers. Tankers also serve the new developments which are currently unreticulated. 113 Annex 7 Summary of Water Supply in Sharm El Sheikh Source Owner Location Capacity Current Output ___________ m3/day m3/day Desalination Plant I SRA Harbor 1,750 400 Desalination Plant 2 SRA At airport 500 350 Desalination plant 3 SSWC Naama Bay 7,000 7,000 Pipeline Ministry of From El Tur 1,000 1,000 Defense Hotels' own desalination Hotels Various 10,000 Variable* plants locations Tanker trucks Private From El Tur @ 6,000 @ 6,000 Total __ 26,250 14,750 + * Depending on the number of tourists. Summary of Water Distribution System in Sharm El Sheikh Item Owner Area Served Scale Remarks Municipal Distribution Municipality 8,000 8 kms 40% estimated System residents losses Reservoir Tank Ministry of To municipal 5,000 m3 Built in 1968 Defense system Private System Private Hotels 20 kms 15% losses 2.3.2 Proposed and Ongoing Projects A 4,000 m3/day desalination plant is to be constructed by the SRA. As described in Section 1.2.2, a pipe from the Nile to Sharm El Sheikh is under construction. The Raja development will build a 2,000 m3/day plant in Ras Um Sadd, while Arabian Industries plan a 4,000 m3/day plant nearby. Both of these desalination plants intend to sell water to tourism developments. 2.3.3 Key Issues It is difficult to assess exact demands for water in Sharm El Sheikh. Not only do they vary seasonally and peak at weekends, but the rapid development of the area creates an ever increasing demand. Water is increasingly being tankered in from El Tur. The Nile pipeline should reduce this amount of water. If El-Tur can supply 6,000 m3/day, this water could, in the first instance, be piped to Sharm El Sheikh. If the Nile can only supply 10,000 m3/day at present, 114 Annex 7 it is not clear how it will able to supply 20,000 m3/day in the future with all the other extra demands which will be imposed on Egypt's major water resource and upstream demands also. The old desalination plant puts brine straight into the harbor at Sharm El Moya, which is enclosed with only a small outlet to the sea. Substantial algal slime is noticeable on the shore around the harbor. Care Services do not have a map of the water system. It is difficult to understand how they can maintain the system without such a fundamental piece of information. The distribution system needs mapping, a condition assessment, extension and rehabilitation. 2.4 Sanitation and Wastewater Management 2.4.1 Existing Situation The original sewerage system was built during Israeli occupation and has been extended to the present day system of 17kms which covers the city center, the port, El Amair and Naama Bay. The trunk sewer is under reno'ation by SRA. Six pump stations and pressure mains pump an estimated flow of 25,000 m3/day to oxidation ponds in the middle of Sharm El Sheikh. The treatment capacity is only 1,200 m3/day as the bund walls of two ponds have been destroyed by floods and only four ponds are working. Inspection showed the influent to be weak as would be expected from a high water usage tourist area. Effluent goes to a nearby orchard. The unserviced areas use septic tanks which are emptied by tankers which take the sewage directly to the ponds. In all, about 20 hotels have there owm wastewater treatment systems while about 50 hotels use the municipal system. The Governate contract Care Services to maintain the system. They estimate around 30,000 people, including tourists, are served. The service is free of charge to consumers. Summary ol Wastewater in Sharm El Sheikh Item Owner Area Served Scale Remarks Municipal System Governa Municipality 17 kms with _ 6,000 No charge and 6 pump stations te and Tourist connections for sewerage Municipal Treatment SRA ditto Flow 25,000 m3/day. In poor Works _ Capacity 1,200 m3/day condition 2.4.2 Proposed Projects SRA have built oxidation ponds costing MEL 60 million. Initial capacity is 15,000 m3/day with a 2020 design capacity of 30,000 m3/day. They were due for commissioning by October and the existing plant will be decommissioned. The new plant is three kilometers inland, 140 meters above sea level. Wastewater will be pumped to the ponds and effluent piped by gravity irrigation. The SSWC are building a 3,000 m3/day (6,000 & 9,000 phased capacity) activated sludge plant adjacent to the new municipal plant using primary, secondary and tertiary treatment. Effluent will irrigate the golf course under construction five kilometers distant. 2.4.3 Key Issues The estimated flow of 25,000 m3/day is large when the water produced is only 26,000 m3/day. Care Services stated that it also does not have a map of the sewerage network. It is 115 Annex 7 unclear who will fund the pumping of wastewater to the new SSWC activated sludge plant. The golf course uses 3,000 m3/day of fresh water supplied through from the SSWC and tankers from El Tur. It is understood that no recycling system has been built. The course is over 300 meters from the beach with little chance of surface run-off into the sea, but there may be groundwater intrusion. 2.5 Solid Waste Management 2.5.1 Existing Situation Care Services collects waste from 40 hotels and about 400 private villas and apartments. Other hotels contract local Bedouins to remove solid waste. Care Services has 120 staff working in their solid waste division recruited from all over Egypt who are provided with accommodation. It has eight trucks which make a total of 60 trips per day to the dumpsite, five kilometers from town and hidden by low hills. The four hectare site and belongs to the municipality and has a supervisor from Care Services. Open tipping and burning is carried out and scavenging and separation are done by local Bedouin. Summary of Solid Waste Management in Sharm El Sheikh Item Responsible Equipment Remarks Party Municipal Waste Municipality 2 x 5 ton tipper trucks; 2 x Only four areas of Street Sweeping Municipality 2.5 ton compactors; I x 7 the town served. Tourist Waste Hotels ton compactor; 3 open Vehicles make 60 Tourist Waste Hotels small trucks trips to site per day. Total Generation About 30 tons per day (non construction) Disposal Site 5 ha municipal site 5 kms from town Open tipping. 2.5.2 Proposed Projects The existing dumpsite will be upgraded to a sanitary landfill site, with fencing, site huts, leachate and flood protection with appropriate equipment. Funding has not been secured. It is also proposed to improve the training of solid waste collection staff, particularly as regards sorting and recycling with assistance from the EU. 2.5.3 Key Issues Much waste never gets collected or taken to the dumpsite. The existing dumpsite is an environmental hazard. Children, camels and other animals scavenge on the site without any protection. Sheep and goats fall into garbage pits and are killed. Construction waste is supposed to be dumped in a designated area, but this does not seem to happen as construction waste was evident in all construction sites. The beach towards the airport has been badly damaged by construction waste. 116 Annex 7 2.6 Power Supply Sharm El Sheikh is presently served by its own gas turbine generator, while many of the hotels have their own generators either as the main supply or as standby. With the connection to the national grid, all the generators wi ll be used for standby only. Summary of Power Supply System in Sharm El Sheikh Item Owner Scale Power Station Ministry of Electricity 30 MW HV Distribution Lines Ministry of Electricity LV Distribution Lines CANAL 3. DAHAB 3.1 General Dahab lies 100 kms north of Sharm El Sheikh between Nabq and Abu Gallum protected areas. The town has developed along the coast, where most of the tourism developments lie, and in an area behind the main hotels for municipal institutions. TDA have land earmarked for development along the coast to both the north and south of the town. The existing population of 10,000 is predicted to rise to 40,000 in the next five years as 57 new hotel developments are proposed. 3.2 Roads 3.2.1 Existing Situation There is one trunk road into Dahab. The municipality maintains small roads but 1997 was the first year in which they received a budget for this from the Govemate. 3.2.2 Proposed Projects It is proposed to dual the main road over six kilometers to the junction of the Nuweiba - Sharm El Sheikh roads at a cost of MEL 4.5. The SRA is constructing 16 kilometers of roads as the first phase project of road expansion costing 2.5 million pounds. In the long terrn, a ring road is also proposed 8 kilometers outside the town 3.2.3 Key Issues There is a need to protect existing and proposed roads from flooding. 117 Annex 7 3.3 Water Resources and Supply 3.3.1 Existing Situation SRA built a 1,200 m3/day desalination plant in 1995. It is two kilometers from the sea and uses brackish ground water. Power is supplied by its own diesel generators as well as the town's power plant. Brine is disposed of to the sea over the reef. Desalinated water is pumped 2.5 kilometers to a 1,250 m3 reservoir tank above the town. The whole scheme, including the reservoir tanks, cost 25 million pounds. Production cost is six pounds per cubic meter. There are 55 staff of which five are engineers. SRA have contracted a private firm to operate the plant, pumps, rising main, reservoir tank and 640 meters of mains. Care Services looks after the 20 kilometers of distribution system with estimated losses of 35 per cent. Six are currently working, supply another 1,000 m3/day. These are operated by RIGWE and used for Bedouin areas. Four and five star hotels must supply their own water and treat their wastewater, but smaller hotels get a two year grace period to do this and water is supplied by the municipality at EL 7 per m3. Summary of Water Supply in Dahab Source Owner Location Capacity Current Output m3/day m3/day Desalination Plant SRA At back of town 1,200 1,200 Brackish wells SSG In Wadi 1,000 1,000 Hotel desalination plants Hotels Various Not known Variable* Total 2,200 2,200 + * Depending on the number of tourists. Summary of Water Distribution System in Dahab Item Owner Area Served Scale Remarks Municipal Distribution Municipality Municipality 20 kms 40 % losses System Rising main from SRA Municipality 1,250 mi3 Built in 1995 Desalination Plant 3.3.2 Proposed and Ongoing Projects A new reservoir tank will serve the Bedouin settlements at the north of the town. There is also a proposal to expand the desalination plant to 4,000 r3/day. 3.3.3 Key Issues Unaccounted for water imposes an extra financial burden on the municipality. 118 Annex 7 3.4 Sanitation and Wastewater Management 3.4.1 Existing Situation The sewerage system is five kilometers in length and serves most of the town. Five pumping stations take the sewage to oxidation ponds, two kilometers from the sea with a design capacity of 3,000 m3/day. The ponds are badly damaged and do not function, while the poorly treated effluent lies in a pond filled with solid waste. Summary of WVastewater System in Dahab Item Owner Area Served Scale Remarks Municipal Collection System SRA Municipality 5 kms No charge for and 5 pump stations sewerage Municipal Treatment Works SRA 3,000 In very poor m3/day condition 3.4.2 Proposed Projects SRA have commissioned a study for rehabilitating the sewerage system and constructing a new treatment plant. 3.4.3 Key Issues The system is old and under capacity and the treatment plant hardly functions. Untreated effluent pollutes the water table and could affect the marine environment. 3.5 S,olid Waste Management 3.5.1 Existing Situation Care Services hire a five ton truck from the municipality. Care Services has 12 laborers. They do not collect from hotels who usually have contracts with Bedouin. The solid waste situation had got so bad with waste dumped around the town that two local diving hotel owners arranged to clean up all the waste and paid for much of it themselves by renting trucks. With the full cooperation of the municipality, they cleared large tracts of dumps dating back to the Israeli occupation. They also initiated an awareness campaign in the town and plan to start paper recycling. A temporary dumpsite has been built about four kilometers from Dahab adjacent to the main road. Some construction waste is used for landfill and the rest is put in old clay pits left over from the defunct brick industry 119 Annex 7 Summary of Solid Waste Management System in Dahab Item Responsible Party Equipment Remarks Municipal Waste Municipality | No house collection Street Sweeping Municipality 5 ton truck Poor service Tourist Waste Hotels Total Generation 7 tons per day (non-construction) Disposal Site 0.5 ha, 4 kms from town, Prone to flooding 3.5.2 Proposed Projects A four hectare landfill site in a old quarry belonging to the municipality about 10 kilometers from town has been identified. The site will require protection from flooding as well as the usual sanitary landfill requirements. The site is relatively far from the town but this is offset by its proximity to the main road which should reduce travel times and wear and tear on the vehicles. 3.5.3 Key Issues Dahab, with its many small hotels, makes solid waste management much more difficult to organize and control than in areas where five star hotels predominate. Improved awareness and education regarding solid waste is required. The temporary site is situated in the main wadi which is prone to flooding. Any flood will bring this waste back into the town and surrounding sea. 3.6 Power Supply The power plant has an installed capacity of 20 MW, but peak demand is 3.5 MW. Summary of Power Supply System in Dahab Item Owner Scale Remarks Power Station Ministry of Electricity 20 MW Gas Turbine Only uses HV Distribution Lines Ministry of Electricity 30 km cable about 3.5 MW. LV Distribution Lines CANAL 40 km cable 20 km overhead 120 Annex 7 4. NUWEIBA 4.1 General The port town of Nuweiba lies at the outlet of Wadi Watir, one of the main wadis in the Sinai. The town has grown in two centers separated by the wadi. The southern portion accommodates the port and its associated services, while the northern section contains the municipal building and the other few government offices. 4.2 Roads 4.2.1 Existing Situation and Proposed Projects There are about 30 kilometers of municipality roads. The main road is maintained by the Governate's Roads and Bridges Department. SRA plans no road construction. 4.3 Water Resources and Supply 4.3.1 Existing Situation The town and tourist facilities receive water from a combination of two desalination plants, six wells and tankers. The northern plant's capacity is 250 m3/day, while the southern plant's is 450 m3/day, but only produces about 60 m3/day. The 60 meter deep brackish wells produce 2,000 m3/day which enters the system untreated. The south desalination plant pumps water to a reservoir tank above the town for distribution by gravity. The desalinated water and the brackish water have separate distribution systems, although they can be linked through valves. The latter is only used for washing and other non consumable purposes and drinking water is provided by tanker. About 40 per cent of the town is connected to the 23 kilometers of the desalinated system, while around 45 per cent are served by the 31 kilometers of brackish water system. The remainder are served by tankers. The Bedouin use their own sources for drinking water and the desalinated systems for their animals. Assuming 40 per cent losses, daily per capita consumption is estimated at 60 liters. SRA operate the northern desalination plant, while the southern plant is operated through a contract with the Governate. Care Services has a contract with the municipality for operation and maintenance of the reticulation system. 121 Annex 7 Summary of Water Supply in Nuweiba Source Owner Location Capacity Current m3/day Output _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _m 3 ld ay Desalination Plant 1 SRA North Nuweiba 220 60 Desalination Plant 2 SSG South Nuweiba 450 250 Brackish wells SSG Wadi Watir 2,000 2,000 Desalination Plant Port Inside Port 70 70 Authority Hotel desalination plants Hotels In hotels 2,000 2,000 Tankers Private From Ein Furtaga 500 Variable Total 5,240 4,380 Summary of Water Distribution System in Nuweiba Item Owner Area Served Scale Remarks Fresh Water Municipality North and South 23 kms 40 % served; Brackish Water Municipality Nuweiba EL 6 m3 tariff. Tankers Municipality Brackish and 31 kms 45 % served & Private unserved areas 15 % served 4.3.2 Proposed and Ongoing Projects The MoPWWR is developing the well fields at Ein Furtaga, 23 kilometers from Nuweiba and building a pipeline to Nuweiba at a cost of 13 million pounds. The project will eventually supply 3,000 m /day with an initial flow of 1,800 m3/day. The USAID funded Secondary Towns Project will fully rehabilitate and augment the water supply and wastewater systems to meet expected demands to the year 2015. 4.3.3 Key Issues The present system is highly problematic and unsatisfactory, but with the implementation of the Ein Furtaga development and USAID funded improvements, the situation will improve. 4.4 Sanitation and Wastewater Management 4.4.1 Existing Situation There are two wastewater systems covering about 150 hectares constructed of PVC pipe with 4 automatic pump stations. Both system are pumped to two separate oxidation ditches. The town generates about 1,000 m3/day of domestic sewage. Operation and maintenance is contracted to Care Services by the SRA. The north system of ponds, built during the Israeli occupation, had a design capacity of 450 m3/day and was rehabilitated in 1986 but does not function properly. The southern ponds were built in 1982 with a capacity of 800 m3/day. Inspection indicated that 122 Annex 7 the ponds had not received sewage for some time. Neither ponds had primary treatment. The two major hotels have their own treatment plants. Summary of WVastewater System in Nuweiba Item Owner Area Scale Remarks Served m3/da North Collection System Municipalit 100 ha 650 Both systems use PVC and 3 pump stations y pipes from South Collection System Municipalit 50 ha 350 rehabilitation in 1986 and 1 pump stations y North Treatment Works SRA North 450 Damaged. South Treatment Works SRA South 800 Damaged and not _____ ____ _____ ____ ____ _ __receiving wastewater 4.4.2 Proposed Projects TIhe USAID project will maintain the dual systems and fully rehabilitate the ponds while extending both systems to treat around 7,000 m3/day. 4.4.3 Key Issues The rehabilitation and upgrading will vastly improve the wastewater system. 4.5 Solid Waste Management 4.5.1 Existing Situation The city council contracts Care Services for street cleaning only. There is no house collection although there are 40, 1m3 bins for residents to deposit waste. The port generates one ton of waste daily and this area is unsightly from uncollected solid waste. The city has three 5 ton back-compactor trucks. One truck is still in customs. Each truck has four handlers including a driver. It takes about 15 minutes to hand empty a cubic meter bin and afterwards much waste is left lying about. Collection takes place in the morning between 7.00 AM and 12.00 noon. Care Services would like to introduce an evening shift, but the city has no funds. The current five hectare dumpsite is in South Nuweiba adjacent to the existing oxidation ponds. Informal sorting is carried out by Bedouin women. There is an old broken fence and waste lies over the area. The town cites a lack of funds to develop a proper landfill. 123 Annex 7 Summary of Solid Waste Management in Nuweiba Item Responsible Party Equipment Remarks Municipal Waste Municipality No household collection Street Sweeping Municipality Three 5 ton back One truck still in compactor trucks customs. Tourist Waste Hotels Total Generation 8 tons per day Disposal Site By South WTP, 10 ha belongs to municipality. 4.5.2 Proposed Projects It is proposed to improve the service in a similar manner to Dahab. 4.5.3 Key Issues The existing dumpsite is an environmental hazard. The town has much waste lying around and the current contractors only collect a proportion of the waste. The hand emptying of the bins is unhygienic, very inefficient and also fairly ineffective. Even providing the collectors with shovels would help, although a simple tipping device to place the waste in the truck would reduce collections times. 4.6 Power Supply There is a 1 MW power station owned by the Ministry of Electricity. 5. TABA 5.1 General Taba lies on the border with Israel and is part of Nuweiba Markaz, but has its own village council. It has few services and is dominated by the Hilton Hotel. 5.2 Roads 5.2.1 Existing Situation There is one main road which comes up the coast from Nuweiba to the border point. There are about three kilometers of village council roads and some private roads. 124 Annex 7 5.2.2 Proposed Projects A new parallel road along the shore to the border for Israel is planned. As mentioned in paragraph 1.1.2 another road is planmed parallel to the Israeli border to link Taba to the Mediterranean Sea which will run. 5.3 Water Resources and Supply 5.3.1 Existing Situation SRA own two desalination plants with produce 300 m3/day and 2,000 m3/day respectively and operation and maintenance is contracted out. The average demand is around 500 m3/day for non tourist purposes with the Hilton Hotel and associated tourist developments requiring between 500 to 900 m3/day. There is ample capacity. The Hilton also receives water from a desalination plant in Eilat. The distribution system is undergoing renovation to replace GI pipes with PVC pipes. Two distribution systems total about 10 kilometers and are maintained by Care Services. Losses are estimated at 10 per cent. Tankers are also used for water supply. 5.3.2 Proposed and Ongoing Projects The 2,000 m3/day desalination plant was built in 1995 and as such there are no plans for new desalination plants. 5.4 Sanitation and Wastewater Management 5.4.1 Existing Situation There is a small sewerage system which flows to a sump in the middle of the town where it is pumped into tankers and taken for disposal in the desert. Other parts of the town are served by septic tanks. The Hilton Hotel has an existing sewage treatment plant with a capacity of 300 m3/day. 5.4.2 Proposed Projects The Hilton is constructing a new 1,500 m3/day package treatment plant which will serve the hotel and the new developments. Effluent will be used for irrigation and discussions are underway to possibly use the irrigation for the border immigration area. The plant is due for commissioning in September 1997. Operation and maintenance is contracted to a private firm. 5.5 Solid Waste Management 5.5.1 Existing Situation The Ministry of Interior contract Care Services to clean the customs area. They also collect waste in the town. The Hilton has introduced an environmental program in their hotel to reduce waste through improved environmental management. Waste is dumped in the desert in various locations around the town. 125 Annex 7 5.5.2 Key Issues With the proposed growth in Taba, waste will increasingly become a problem, particularly as there is no dumpsite in the area. 5.6 Power Supply Power in Taba is supplied from a gas-turbine generator which supplies 6 MW. The Hilton hotel receives power both from this generator and from Israel. A transformer station has recently been constructed in Taba as the Egyptian end of the new power cable to Jordan. 127 Annex 8 List of Existing and Potential Donor-Supported Environmental Projects Related to the Egyptian Coast of the Gulf of Aqaba Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) * Organizational Support Program, EEAA (existing) * Environmental Education and Training Program, EEAA (existing) * Environmental Information and Monitoring Program, EEAA (existing) * Consensus Building for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (CZM) in cooperation with the Netherlands, EEAA/National CZM Committee (existing) * Training in Urban Sewer Modeling (potential) * Updating of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan, EEAA (potential) * Technical Assistance to Coastal Research Institute and Hydraulic Research Institute (potential) * North Sinai Governorate Environmental Action Plan, North Sinai Govemorate and EEAA (existing) European Union * Aqaba Protectorates Development Prograrn (existing) * Oil spill contingency plan (potential) Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) * Establishment of Mini-Laboratories in the Regional Branch Offices of EEAA (existing) United States Development Agency (USAID) * Public Awareness Campaign on the Environmental Protection Law, EEAA (existing) * Secondary Cities Program, Min. of Public Works (existing) * MERC (existing) * Environmentally Sustainable Tourism, EEAA (existing for the Red Sea Coast, potential for the Gulf of Aqaba) 128 Annex 8 Italy The Italian govermment has expressed an interest in environmental projects related to protected areas and coastal zone management. Given the large number of Italian tourists visiting the Gulf of Aqaba's coast and a number of Italian investments in areas of tourism industry, there could be some potential interest for supporting environmental projects in the Gulf of Aqaba coast. Norway NORAD has reportedly expressed an interest in coastal zone management projects Other Activities There are reportedly other activities taking place in the area: (a) Irish consultants conducting studies in the TEAM area, involving water resources for the whole Taba-Eilat-Aqaba area and a touristic center in Taba; (b) Dutch survey for siting of marinas, Ministry of Tourism; (c) EU study on Sinai water resources, NMinistry of Public Works, some work in South Sinai (Wadi Watir and Protectorate Area). 129 Annex 9 REFERENCES EEAA - Egyptian Coast: Development and Challenges - National Committee for Integrated Coastal Zone Management. December 1996 EEAA - Guidelines for Egyptian Environmental Impact Assessment. EEAA - Environmental Guidelines for Development in the Coastal Areas. March 1996 EEAA - Framework Programme for the Development of a National ICZM Plan for Egypt. December 1996 EEAA - Department of Natural Protectorates - National Parks of Egypt - South Sinai Sector Egyptian Consulting House SAE - Summary of a Feasibility Study for Waste Treatment at South Sinai Govemorate, Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Noweibaa, Egypt. November 1997 The World Bank - Gulf of Aqaba - Environmental Action Plan - Jordan - October 1993 The World Bank - Egypt - Gulf of Aqaba Environmental Action Plan - Infrastructure mission - June-July 1997 (working paper) MSEA Chairman EEAA Management Board CEO, Deputy Chairman Security CEO OfficeIforation & Public Service Computer Center Management Board Secreteriat Planing & Follow Up Public Relations Foreign Relation & O&M Environmental -Technical Support & Env. Technical Cooperation Protection Fund Disasters Management e .n SECRETERIAT Special Assgnnents & Legal Affairs ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ __________Envirounmental Disaster ranches Legal AffaManagement Office Branches Affairs Financial & Admin. |lnvironenta Informatio Environental Quality Enviromnental Affars & Public Awareness 3S JI Management Nature Protection Financial Affairs Training & Water Quality Environmental inpact Biodiversity Administrative Development Avgessrnnt Affairs Cultur Center ~ai yHazardous Substances &NauaPrtcrts ] Ad i t ti _ | Cu~~~lforcnation _ Env Air &Noise Quality| W.Qte.Msinageet tl|Natural Protectorates_ Mamaement EEA) Land& Soil Quality | Waste Management r EEAA Branche - Evironment | Envuomneala | Health Eavn l | Finvonmetal coat & Marine Zon Monitoring Manaement I Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) - Organizational Scheme-Chart 1 Board of Directors Board of Directors Secretariat Z Chairman F CifExecfre Officer | Planning and Followup Security | Information Technical Office rubic Affairs Organization & Management H Legal Affairs| I General | 0 Touristic Areas Affairs | Economic & Environment Development & Touristic Areas Human Resources Economic Studies Investor Affairs Area Planning Administrative Affairs I Finacia AffMarketing Infrastructure Financial Affairs Land Transactions r Environmental Affairs Contracding Projed Implementation Fdlowup| Tourism Development Authority Organizational Scheme - Chart 2 Goveirnorate Real Staff T l~~~~~~~~~~~~nfo7rmation & Environmnental Affairs Statstic |Housing & Family Aff-airs |.t Transport & Commtunication Complaints ~ ~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Legal Affairsin [3 ~~~~Civil Services -_TGovenoings I =-~~~~~~~~~~Ofc Planning & Folo _ |Seecretary .P l l ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Deputy Secretaryw |Internal Fiaca &G General |~ ~~~~Fi~i Relatinfion Financial and Administration || Sca far . | ~~~~~~~~Affairs Sc FMedia &; Pulicity 14E 1 X Financial Afar Tourism Ip I,o , I,s Adiitain Fiaca Affairsmtin 4 Tourism |I proatin AreeMinigend| ; ; I - I . I Co-ops South Sinai Governorate - Organization Structure - Chart 3 President 4 Prime Minister Cabinet of Ministers Minister of Other Line Minister of Council of Governors Tourism Ministers Environment T ] ~MoHUU C | ||MoP 11__ Environm 1ent Management Other milloo j 4 I ~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~Unit Units A L ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , I SRA IGOP + egend Municipalities| irect Reporting - ndirect Reporting and ssistance - ' Chart 4 - THE INSTITUTIONAL SETTING Organizations involved in development and environment in the Egyptian Aqaba coast Proponent _ . ; ... ... ... ....................................... .... ........... ........... ........... . . . . .... . . . ........ . .. ....... CAA review 1^^: - a l : :~~~~~~1 :; ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. ......:.... : :: . :: .: -- [ : ,^ - ~~~~...... ..... ... .L Black .... . Grey White : . -,, : , : -: ., , >Y , ...,,.-,..,.i.,,.,.-.=.." ..... ..e.. ...... m.. ment . . . :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .: .. , , '''''-':'' ''''^~..----........ ......... .i,nt''. ':.: .,wrnmetj ':'-: .... . m ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~...... eEAA Evaluation.... '''''":'''':''''' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. . . . . . . . . ......,---,,,-'',,..j-. ,. . .. ... .. A . - - - , ..... ,.,. . c........ . . ... :( - : as\ssii;iL Permanent Appeals Committee * = Action to be performed; All decisions wSill be copied to EEAA for inclusion in the EIA register The EIA Process - Chart 5 Vision for Sustainable Development - Chart 6 Deplotion and Destruction of Naural Rcsources ] ,~~~~Excmsive Dehlopment: incornplete Dbnlopnment I i conipafi,ble Dwcopment overcarr"cwiie gapin evim pmvifio Y venvimiment I ' ~~~~~Pressure,br ,I4O , acoordiali 'A plkannhing Ecown t ,between tourisn a. an municpaldevelopment Olack enforcement The Vision: Sustainable Development in the Gul of Aqaa Plans to Support and Develop the Vlisl Policy & Sustainabbe Murcipal CoastalZone Integated ToDn , j evelopnent Ma|naement I Planning I Action Plan , ActbonPlan , ActionPlan Programs and Projects to Implement the Plans EEAA Projects I TCA ! ,-E,-iviwnta - SddWaste -Enforcement I Capaaity , i Awaeness *ROadS&FkO ,SensitivtW Mapping Builing -Capaaty sAssmens ts,,iy* j-aning _ ,~~~~-RucuceMl ,abcn HRD, * HRD __________HRD *, Cnt Deveopmed Benefits _ . _ .........~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.... ....... - .... ----- Natural... _ ........ _.. - Replicability ,Long term assets, Improved Natural - Reougniton of EEAA and thus profits Municipal Coastline maintained Serices Preserved V ise............ ... i....... . . ..._ . ..... Do - Vision for Sustainable Development - Chart 6 137 Chart 7 GULF OF AQABA - SHIPPING ACTIVITY Aaaba Ellat a b 185 vessels 2,480 vessels (incl.1,050 ferry boats) Nuweiba Strait of Tiran (1993) Strait of Tiran Calls for Eilat 185 Strait of Tiran l lil l l Calls for Aqaba 1,430 Calls for Nuweiba 0 Total through Tiran 1,615 Sharm el Sheikh Central Institutions South Sinai Institutions Central Directions South Sinai Units ICZM 14_ National Committee ......1 . 1 . ... n ....'..''"n"'"Ath ~~~~~.. . . . . . . . . . ... ............. ,.0 0__.. ....... ....... ' .. a ... >< ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~............ __________________ SS-TDA Al Local population....... [ Social Fund for I }.............. ... i Development 11111]....... ....... A _ ........ ... ...... |Private Sector |**. ECoreMebe . .....Institution to be | . .strengthened under GAEAP Coordination Mechanism for Environmental Protection Chart 8 > 6 :: - :-::::: : -:: :::- :::*::-: - : ::::: :::::::* - S s2 1 i -i2 -CF ~' ' +ml ee66N- a Q .˘ c, ~~~~~~. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I . . . .. o , ; , 1 . . ..................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v ~~~~~~~~~. . . . . . . . . . . : '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......... . o_7 7 l l 7 g ~ 1 0 o~ ˘. ......... .. I . .L ..) ^ ,_ cl LU 2 w | l 1|1 I I 111 - < 6 2 i S E~~~~C/) ~ _ .. . .. . . ... .... * - c, llS rW .W ^ 1 . | f::: ::::: ::::::5 f. ::::::. ......:............. |~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:;i* X X . = 1 a~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. >. n . . . . . . E. _.. . . . . . . . 1 ' ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. :. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1'''. . . . . .1''| 1W ''" ' ... . .. -. ........'. .. . -. . ! C) jt 0........... ..... ...... ....... ... ... ......... ... ....o.o . . . . . . . . ..... ........ ....... ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ .. ........ V~~~0 0 .. .. .. . .. . . .. . .. . . . ... . ... . .. .. . .. .. . .. .... ... . . ... ................ V)~~- - - 140 Chart 10 South Sinai Conservation Sector 1 - RAS MOHAMMED NATIONAL PARK 2 - NABQ PROTECTORATE 3 - ABU GALUM PROTECTORATE 4 - SAINT KATHERINE PROTECTORATE 5 - TABA PROTECTORATE 141 EU Program for South Sinai Chart 11 Environmental Protection Institution Building Environmental Sinai Water of National Parks Protection Measures Resources Study ECU 20 000 000 ECU 7 000 000 ECU 3 000 000 Ras Mohammed Shanm El-Sheik -| Park I . Oilspill Prevention ECU 770 000 Center Ras Mohammed -l Park II Nuweiba Oilspill ECU 10 000 000 I - Prevention Center pa ECU 2 900 0001ll rGulf of Aqaba |1111111|1l -I1 Protectorates _ _ 1111111J ECU 10 000 000 R Saint Katherine'M m Ntol Par Park [l3i 11 1 ECU 6 000 000 I0 (O [ ~~Ras Mohammed National Park MAP SECTION ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT GULF OF AQABA INFRASTRUCTURE AND PARKS Lj NATIONAL PARKS MAIN ROADS O SELECTED CITIES AND TOWNS OTHER ROADS - WADIS --- INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARIES El~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~i L . 5 31< T,41 d ~ ~ ~ ~~~1 SI n e lg ,TI CaP iIba-\ Ej, elAbd0 b° Aoegla Mosh a Yer°bea* o l Ta15PlaJ Byid1- L1 NA ArLA,hadiM, - trueo< >4S, .W 0 0.,0 - ' \ -}2B , .- H- 'E 7-Al ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Sh-ishaal ,A5 S -I/ - - - - @ \ F 4 ; > _ N4 D ) ' Zr VIH ; P I f - l // HI h r, / UKan~~~~~r AlA '0, T. E4 ,K\-a (f8\ ;, X ,?^\t[ X :1)/ '? A- I - jA Su* ~ ~ S W des, r /3Q it - ,~~~~~~- Monastery 0a 7 sb˘˘9 aI nX f RdsGhar >511 I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~AB~~~~~~~~~~1 / - l\> _-aJ_,,,,_x~~~~~~~~(I,,aA \, L , sS -~~~~~~~~~~~- NX, - i / - 0 4 / --- < ~ ~~ Ras En a-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~9 1----, ' /'R 'a-, ' ,A2 27 J' A U D I ,~ ~~~~~~~~~~b OL Al |Bud -qT7Ui77707a~mnXF4I5vR7˘0< 3-. / \\\ / /313 v r X 0E ,,*,M,˘P *,W,,,,V,,De#S H"-WOBIA R E D SL EA 'I /5 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~" ? 'I 1 MWF k \/ I -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 53~lk 1 75P t .06 .Wd BSSOBG- BERS 33 ~ ~ \/ - '- I1 " / 2LK USe asi h'S`750Te Be i IBRD 29244 ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT En GULF OF AQABA TUIMLAND USEEIa l'qoaJ R N - - TOURISM DEVELOPMENT SECTOR BOUNDARIES TOURISM AREA , HOTEL AREA MUNICIPAL AREA TABA SECTOR L~PROTECTED AREAS AIRPORT NUMBEROF TC PORT 2 WADIS -MAIN ROADS INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARIES / ' < s NUWEIBA SECTOR ' 29~~~~ ,~~~~ ~NLMBER OF TOTAL AE =29' < / z - r~ -r PROJECTS 100 NO 2 \-' 22 381 '~K ,~$N DAHAB SECTOR NUMBER OP TOTAL AREA N '~~~$N a' ~~PROJECTS 1 000 M2 WADI KID SECTOR SHARM EL SHEIKH SECTOR PROJECTS 1 000 M2 ,,1 ,,, ,,, eC, 690 \ ,,, gYcf.,,, A A , This nsc~ was produrod by h Mop .Des:n Unit of Th Wo:d B-ank Th. ;;nsd moA, _deanom R! '-A, , ond anyotlserifo,motion showeorr 8ign ma j nf o . Dt EA, o , thep a of the , dskr,.admeP ont 8o 1f0cm of eoy .i*o-. .,y,. AUGUST 1 998