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Cairo, 22/8/2002
Maaro'f Victims' impasse: between the fire- eaten houses and destructive investment policies of the government
The government of Egypt is still pursuing the same destructive economic polices recommended by the World Bank. Such polices has resulted in social and economic violations and led to widening the gap of impoverishment , although the government repeats its rhetoric that the low- income earners are the prime target of its developmental agenda. The Cairo impoverishment pockets reflect the deep social contradictions. One of such pockets located in down town , at Maaro'f street , has witnessed a human disaster after broken-out huge fire. 24 households - 81 members, rescued by accident, are vulnerable and homeless. Their ragged houses and tattered belongings are eaten by such huge fire. Association for Human Rights Legal Aid (AHRLA) hastily moved to the spot. AHRLA field- team work has observed different aspects of negligence and shortcomings: delayed arrival of extinguishing fire -cars and no water connections .This caused more damages. The authorities did not extend either necessary relief or urgent aids. This is to subdue the victims to the orders of Cairo Governorate . The authorities seek to evacuate down town to other areas to sell the soil in astronomical prices and to be exploited and invested by businessmen. AHRLA calls for relief organizations to extend hastily their assistance and aid to the victimized households. Children are vulnerable to summer diseases. It is to mention that AHRLA is deeply concerned over those kids deprived of the due governmental care. The victims has entrusted AHRLA to take the legal measures and procedures. Also, AHRLA joins its potentials to the other efforts being done by organizations operating in the field of socials and economic rights in order to relieve the victims . |