from the sublime to the ridiculous

[Dusak]

The BBC reported that some of the Cairo metro ticket prices are being increased three fold to comply with the IMF austerity rules for their phone a lone. All I can see is that this will probably lead to higher congestion on the Cairo roads with those finding it now cheaper to travel that way. And of course, increase the feelings of disgruntlement towards yet more price hikes.

While watching a YT channel last night one of those annoying advertisements took over the screen, the kind you have to watch until they finish. It advertised the coming event of the new international construction industries four day event, 18th-20th of September. It will highlight new building technology, next generation of materials, new approaches to design, material usage and implementation of advanced building techniques. Interesting I thought, it being my past trade, until at the end it stated it was Egypt that was putting on the event. I just hope those that attend do not think of the old adage ''lead by example.''

[newcastle]

Commuters will be charged a base fare of LE 3 ($ 0.16) for the first nine stops and an additional LE 2 (total LE 5) for seven more stations. The highest ticket price has been fixed at LE 7 if the commuter travels more than 16 stations.

God help Egypt if the people in Cairo can't afford that!

I realise it's a big percentage increase from the previous 2 LE....but come on!!

[Who2]

Well here's a great idea on raising the public purse. I don't watch TV....
https://www.egypttoday.com/Article/1/49 ... in-Ramadan

[carrie]

The metro is brilliant in Cairo, clean, cheap, ladies only carriages.

[Dusak]

Well, I don't know about the people of Cairo's spending power, but believe you me, there are many here in Luxor that struggle on a daily basis to find the 1.5 Le local bus fares. I suppose if you use the metro you are either in full time employment or a tourist, so what would that leave in any one week that couldn't afford it 30 million?

[newcastle]

Well, I don't know about the people of Cairo's spending power, but believe you me, there are many here in Luxor that struggle on a daily basis to find the 1.5 Le local bus fares. I suppose if you use the metro you are either in full time employment or a tourist, so what would that leave in any one week that couldn't afford it 30 million?

I can well believe it.....and no doubt those Cairenes on low salaries will feel the pinch.

Maybe they'll have to curb their enthusiasm for cigarettes and mobile phones.

The impact of the austerity measures introduced by the regime have not been matched by salary/pension rises....but how could they be without significant economic growth. If Egypt is to rise from the ashes of 60 years of economic mismanagement, drastic changes - not least in attitudes to wastage - need to occur.

Getting to grips with the taxation system (I use the word 'system' advisedly) would be a good start.....it manifestly benefits the rich whilst clobbering (via tax on goods/services) the poor.

Revolutions are born out of deep feelings of unfairness.....