Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, Dr. Manal Awad, carried out an unannounced inspection tour of the Petrified Forest Protected Area in Fifth Settlement on Tuesday, underscoring the government’s push to strengthen environmental governance, transparency, and public awareness at natural reserves.
The unanticipated visit came as part of a broader series of field inspections aimed at monitoring ongoing environmental projects across Cairo Governorate, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Environment.
Focus on management efficiency and visitor experience
During the tour, Awad reviewed day-to-day operations at the reserve, assessing the efficiency of the management system and the quality of services provided to visitors, while ensuring strict compliance with conservation standards designed to protect Egypt’s natural heritage.
She inspected the ticketing system in place at the reserve, emphasizing the need to accelerate the transition to electronic ticket collection. Digital payment, she said, is essential to enhancing transparency, streamlining entry procedures, and improving the overall visitor experience.
“The shift to electronic ticketing is no longer optional,” Awad stressed, noting that modernized systems are key to accountability and better resource management at protected areas.
Raising environmental awareness
Awad also evaluated the general condition of the Petrified Forest, including cleanliness, maintenance work, and the availability of informational signage for visitors. She highlighted the importance of providing clear, accessible educational materials that explain the reserve’s unique geological formations and fossilized trees—some of which date back millions of years.
Such awareness efforts, she said, play a crucial role in encouraging environmentally responsible behavior and fostering a deeper appreciation for Egypt’s protected areas.
Zero tolerance for violations
The acting environment minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations, warning against any practices or encroachments that could damage the reserve’s fragile geological and natural assets. She called for continuous staff training, efficient use of resources, and regular performance monitoring to ensure the highest standards of protection.
A site of national and scientific importance
Awad described the Petrified Forest Protected Area as one of Egypt’s most significant sites of scientific and environmental value. She pledged to continue conducting surprise inspections to guarantee proper management, strengthen protection mechanisms, and upgrade visitor services.
“These efforts are essential to preserving our natural heritage for future generations and enhancing the standing of Egyptian nature reserves on the global ecotourism map,” she said.
