Project

Egypt's Deadly Infrastructure

Shoddy infrastructure is a quotidian annoyance for most Egyptians, but for some it becomes deadly.

The most obvious example of this is traffic deaths. Poorly maintained roads make for a dangerous and sometimes fatal commute or working environment. Smoggy traffic also threatens public health: either directly though pollution’s affects on disease, or productivity wasted in traffic that could be spent on healthcare.

In this project, Jahd Khalil looks at some of the more insidious ways that infrastructure puts Egyptians at risk. Unsatisfactory urban planning has left urbanized and newly-urbanized Egyptians out of the loop, forcing them to build where some already live: farms. With such small amounts of arable land, development has caused serious problems for food security in Egypt.

That isn’t to say things are beyond repair. In many ways, Egypt is one of the most attractive markets for foreign investment, but questions related to corruption, the lack of social and environmental feasibility studies, and whether these investments will last remain. Investments and planning will save many lives, but can the current government make them happen?

Cairo's Drivers' Roundabout

Egypt's drivers say poor quality roads dictate that they break traffic rules. The country's road planners say it's pointless to make improvements if people won't abide by traffic regulations.

Navigating Cairo's Ferries

Egypt's Nile transport has some safety concerns, but if utilized properly it could mean a whole lot more lives (and money) are saved.