Nile Cruise Boat Permit Revoked Over Waste Discharge in Luxor

The Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation has revoked the operating permit of a tourist cruise boat after it was found discharging liquid waste directly into the Nile River in Luxor.

Inspectors from the ministry's Nile Protection and Development Sector recorded the violation during an inspection along the Nile Corniche in the Awamiya district on the city's east bank. The inspection followed a report submitted by members of the public.

The ministry filed an environmental violation report and referred the case to the Environmental and Water Bodies Police, which has forwarded it to the Public Prosecution for further legal action.

As an administrative penalty, the ministry suspended the vessel's navigation permit for the period between July 1st and July 31st, 2026, citing a breach of its operating conditions. Relevant authorities, including the Tourist Floating Hotels Security Police, the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, the River Transport Authority, and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, were also notified to take action within their respective jurisdictions.

Under Law No. 48 of 1982, which governs the protection of the Nile and Egypt's waterways from pollution, offenders can face prison sentences of up to one year and fines ranging from EGP 50,000 to EGP 200,000, with harsher penalties for repeat offences. The legislation also requires those responsible to restore any environmental damage or cover the cost of government-led clean-up operations.

The ministry said it will continue enforcing environmental regulations to protect the Nile and urged the public to report suspected pollution incidents. The action follows a nationwide inspection campaign ordered by Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam, who previously warned that individuals responsible for dumping waste into waterways or obstructing water flow could face imprisonment and fines of up to EGP 500,000.