Grand development projects in Cairo, including the construction of huge new highways, are coming at the expense of the desert city’s trees. Now, residents are pushing back against the government to protect their arboreal neighbors.
CAIRO (AP) A few months ago, Choucri Asmar decided he wasn't ready to give up hope. So he led a group of residents in “a peaceful demonstration to protect the trees” of his Cairo neighborhood. Egyptian authorities were planning to clear out a large avenue of ficus, acacia and palm trees part of sweeping urban redevelopment projects that are transforming much of historic Cairo.
Activists estimate that in one neighborhood alone, some 100 acres or the equivalent of 73 football fields of parks and trees have been lost as the government tries to ease traffic on Cairo's congested roads
CAIRO - A few months ago, Choucri Asmar decided he wasn't ready to give up hope. So he led a group of residents in "a peaceful demonstration to