Upgrading of Cairo-Alexandria-Matrouh Desert Road (440 Km, 12 lanes, 19 bridges) to Freeway Standard, Iberensa/Hamza Associates - GARBLT - EGYPT

Project description

The project aims to develop and evaluate alternatives for upgrading the 440 km Cairo–Alexandria–Matrouh Desert Road to full freeway standards. It includes identifying the optimal alignment for a new 30 km link road connecting the Cairo–Alexandria and Alexandria–Matrouh routes, replacing the Borg Al-Arab and Km 21 links, which cannot be upgraded to freeway requirements. This new link will support Alexandria’s future urban development. The upgrade introduces full access control, improves the existing cross section, and adds service roads to better serve nearby communities. The freeway consists of eight main lanes—four in each direction—and four service lanes, along with 19 bridges distributed along the route to ensure efficient and safe traffic flow.

EcoBusiness Scope

‒         Conducted a comprehensive ESIA study for upgrading the 440 km Cairo–Alexandria–Matrouh Desert Road (12 lanes, 19 bridges) to international freeway standards, on behalf of GARBLT.

‒         Performed extensive environmental and social fieldwork, including baseline surveys, community engagement, and site-specific impact assessments along the full corridor.

‒         Evaluated key impacts related to air quality, noise, land use, ecology, traffic safety, and community livelihoods, ensuring full compliance with national ESIA requirements.

‒         Coordinated closely with the engineering design team to integrate environmental and social considerations into roadway alignment, cross-section improvements, and access control measures.

‒         Delivered the assignment as a sub-consultant to Hamza Associates, ensuring timely reporting, technical consistency, and alignment with project objectives.