Year: 2008

From the Daily News Egypt:

The entire gamut of civil society in Damietta remains opposed to the construction of the Agrium fertilizer plant on the outskirts of the popular tourist destination Ras El Bar.
…
The proposed site of the factory falls in this direction, right outside the gates of Ras El Bar, six kilometers from the nearest residential area. If Ras El Bar — a popular tourist destination for Egyptians — is to expand, it would find the factory in its path.
Residents of Damietta are angry about the plant being built so close to their homes, and a local movement has been organized to lobby for its relocation.
Aside from the environmental concerns, there is also a concern over the impact on tourism in the area, which is a vital source of revenue.
Nasser El Emary, head of the popular committee opposing the construction of the plant, told Daily News Egypt that he possesses 400 documents on why the plant should not be built in its present location.
…
Lawyers in Damietta went on strike Thursday to protest what they perceived as government dillydallying over the fate of the project and possibly ignoring the wishes of the local residents.
Additionally, 150 representatives of NGOs, trade unions and activists signed a petition that also reflected the united stance of Damietta residents against the plants’ proposed location.