Saline groundwater ascension problems in East Cairo: Environmental threats of fast growing cities

Abstract

The spread of urbanization increases water demand to satisfy both domestic and industrial aspects. In return, large volumes of wastewater will accumulate. Careful environmental studies before major urbanization projects are very important to minimize hazards due to environmental threats. The southeastern part of Cairo is one of these examples, as large amounts of wastewater were accumulated and leaked down to the ponds of Ain Al Sira, causing degradation to one of the oldest therapeutic and skin curing locations.