New Waterway Regulations Introduce Fines of Up to EGP 500,000

New regulations governing Egypt's inland waterways have introduced fines of up to EGP 500,000 for a range of violations, as authorities step up enforcement across the country's river transport network.

Implemented by the River Transport Authority in coordination with local authorities and the Water Police, the measures target offences including operating vessels without the required navigation licences, carrying out unauthorised construction or alterations along riverbanks, and dumping waste or industrial pollutants into waterways.

According to the updated framework, authorities will conduct regular inspections across governorates to ensure tourist boats, cargo barges and private vessels comply with navigation, safety, environmental and loading requirements.

The regulations also expand the powers of local authorities, allowing them to impound non-compliant vessels and halt unauthorised shoreline activities that obstruct navigation or pose risks to public safety.

Alongside the stricter penalties, the River Transport Authority is introducing measures to modernise oversight of the sector through the digitisation of permit tracking and strengthened safety standards.