Egypt's government gears up for floods

Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab held on Sunday a meeting to discuss efforts exerted by governorates and ministries to reduce the expected risks of floods.
A number of ministers and officials attended the meeting, during which Mahlab stressed the need for cleaning storm drains.
Mahlab also called for removing any encroachments on the drainage networks.
It has not escaped Mahlab's notice to urge the protection of the Nile River water.
Irrigation Minister Hossam Moghazi said an unprecedented plan was prepared to reduce the risks of floods nationwide.
He added that 147 storm drains have been purged so far across the nation.