Anakaji, the new administrative capital of Egypt, is a visionary project aimed at changing the face of the country. Located east of Cairo, the development is a mega-scale project encompassing an area of 700 square kilometers, making it the largest urban development in Egypt's modern history.
The idea of creating a New Capital city was first introduced during the presidency of Hosni Mubarak, but due to political turmoil, it never came to fruition. However, the project was restarted under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's administration in 2015, with the aim of relieving congestion in Cairo, improving the standard of living for Egyptians, and attracting foreign investment.
In December 2021, the first phase of construction was completed, providing a glimpse into the future of this ambitious project. The New Capital is designed as a modern, sustainable city with state-of-the-art infrastructure, allowing for efficient transportation and communication.
The city is expected to house around six and a half million people, and its urban planning is based on three main districts: the government district, the business district, and the residential district. The government district will have presidential and governmental facilities, while the business district will host commercial centers and international investment zones. Meanwhile, the residential district will have various types of housing, from high-rise towers to low-density villas.
The New Capital will also incorporate several green spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, and gardens, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The project also includes the construction of a new international airport, a monorail system, and a new road network. The infrastructure is expected to enhance the connectivity and mobility of the city and to ensure that it remains a sustainable metropolis in the long run.
Moreover, the development is expected to act as a catalyst for the country's overall economic growth, attracting foreign investment in sectors such as tourism, real estate, and technology. The New Capital is envisioned as a hub for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, and as a gateway for investment into Africa.
However, the project has faced criticism from some quarters. Some critics have argued that the development's cost is exorbitant, and that the focus should have been on improving existing cities instead of building a new one. They also worry that the New Capital will exacerbate Egypt's socio-economic inequalities, as the city will be built with the affluent population in mind, leaving the poor behind.
In conclusion, Anakaji, the new administrative capital of Egypt, is a massive and ambitious project that seeks to revolutionize the country's urban landscape. The development aims to offer a modern and sustainable living experience while fostering economic growth and providing a platform for innovation and investment. However, the project's success will depend on ensuring that it caters to all sections of society, minimizing any adverse impact on Egypt's socio-economic fabric, and prioritizing the country's development needs.