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Al-Ahram Weekly

Ramses blaze disrupts key services in Egypt as authorities race to restore normalcy - Society

Cooling operations are still underway at the Ramses Telephone Exchange in downtown Cairo, following a major fire that broke out on Monday, resulting in four deaths and over 20 injuries. The blaze, which was fully contained, has caused disruptions to communications, internet networks, and other essential services across the capital. CBE raises daily cash withdrawals The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) announced a temporary increase in the daily maximum cash withdrawal limit in local currency from EGP 250,000 to EGP 500,000 for individuals and companies. In a statement, the CBE said the new withdrawal limit will remain effective until normal operations are fully resumed. Electronic withdrawal limits via ATMs and digital platforms remain unchanged. The decision comes as a proactive measure to facilitate financial transactions as the banking sector is working to restore full functionality of communication systems amid the current service disruptions. The CBE emphasized its commitment to ensuring financial stability and maintaining a smooth operation of banking services nationwide. EGX suspends Tuesday trading The Egyptian Exchange (EGX) announced the suspension of all trading activities on Tuesday, 8 July, citing recent market developments and technical and operational challenges within the trading environment. In an official statement, EGX emphasized that despite intensive efforts by all stakeholders to stabilize the market and ensure efficient communication across the trading ecosystem, particularly among brokerage firms, the current conditions have not yet met the necessary standards for fair and orderly trading. The exchange reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of all market participants and maintaining a level playing field. It also noted that the suspension aims to uphold market integrity and investor confidence. Although EGX affirmed it continues to work closely with relevant entities to restore full functionality as soon as possible, it gave no indication as to when trading will resume. Cairo Airport resumes flights The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that all flights affected by the recent sudden disruption in communications and internet networks have now taken off. In a statement, the ministry confirmed that operations at Cairo International Airport have returned to normal and that the whole operating system has been restored across all terminals after implementing alternative solutions. Additionally, airport operation teams continue to perform their duties efficiently to ensure the continuity of operations and closely monitor all technical and operational systems. They are also working to ensure the delivery of top-quality services to travellers in accordance with the highest standards of safety and quality, the ministry said. Subsidized bread distribution working normally Minister of Supply and Internal Trade Sherif Farouk confirmed that the distribution of subsidized bread to citizens across all Egyptian governorates is ongoing efficiently. He stated that bakeries have been operating at full capacity since Tuesday morning, with bread being dispensed normally through electronic machines without any obstacles. Farouk explained that bread dispensing machines are equipped with multiple SIM cards, allowing bakery owners to switch between networks to ensure uninterrupted service. This flexibility has helped maintain the system's stability and prevented any partial outages from affecting operations. He also emphasized the ministry's commitment to ensuring citizens receive their subsidized bread easily and consistently. Moreover, Farouk noted that operational teams remain actively engaged in providing support to bakeries facing temporary technical issues to ensure stability of the subsidy distribution system under all conditions. Communication services to resume in 24 hours Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat said all telecommunication services will be gradually restored within 24 hours. He dismissed claims that Egypt relies on a single telephone exchange, confirming that although Ramses Telephone Exchange will remain out of service for several days, service restoration is underway through alternative exchanges. Talaat affirmed that all critical services — such as emergency numbers, bread distribution system, airports, ports, and essential utilities — are operating normally in most governorates. According to Talaat, only a few areas have witnessed temporary service disruptions, which are currently being handled, noting that the situation is being monitored in real time. He directed officials to swiftly complete all repair and restoration work and make a list of all affected users to compensate them. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link: