The consequences of presence of -

Socio- economic impact:-
- The scope and density of the land mine / UXO problem within Egypt is dramatic , and has a serious impact upon development in the country . Economic development of the western desert is dependent on solving the mine problem .
- The large population growth , and the quick change of the socio- economic environment due to new development projects and expansion of urban zones and other elements such as increased tourism ; all these factors are resulting in more people being in the area increasing potential of casualties The above mentioned expansion of urban zones is a must with only 4% of Egypt’s land area being populated at the present time.
- Irrigation projects, which are an essential facet of national development projects in desert areas , have experienced delays because of the need to clear landmines and UXO , thus , impeding the cultivation of 833 thousand acres .
- The presence of land mines and UXO is a serious impediment to the development of the power supply industry . A planned 500 kV power cable connecting the area to the regional network requires mine clearance before it is installed .
- Other impeded projects include petroleum projects ( there are symptoms of gas and oil deposits ) .
- Tourism is a major factor in income development in Egypt . Although the area can add a new kind of tourism which is “ safari” and Eco- tourism , the increase in proximity to mine affected area will result in accidents that could have serious repercussions on the industry . It was noted that the tourism industry had been adversely affected by negative publicity of perceptions of risk to travelers , thereby requiring sensitivity to the dual objective of warning people of potential hazards while also not discouraging travel to the country . So , it is important to clear the area of mines to ensure tourists safety .
- As for local development , the land mine threat has influenced urban planning since expenditures on infrastructure increases because of the existence of landmines .
- So, the mine problem impedes socio- economic development in Egypt because it prevents reaching the resources and it slows down achieving the projects and activities .