The CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum Authority, Ahmed Ghoneim, has revealed the cause of cracks that were reported in the exterior floors of the museum.
During a phone in with “al-Hekaya” (The Story) on the MBC Masr satellite channel, Ghoneim said that these cracks were anticipated due to the intensive work involved in the opening ceremony.
He explained that these included the construction of a massive stage and decorations, as well as the use of heavy vehicles to transport timber and equipment.
The floors were not designed to withstand this type of load.
The contracting company is obligated, according to the terms of the contract, to rectify the issues and restore the floors to their original condition without imposing any additional financial burden on the museum, he assured.
He said that the company had already finished removing the debris from the opening ceremony three days prior and will begin the repair work this week in full coordination with the museum administration.
Rainwater concerns
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities responded on Friday to a video circulating online showing rainwater falling on the statue of King Ramses II located in the Grand Hall of the GEM.
The supervisor of the museum project, Atef Moftah, confirmed that the claims of danger posed by the rain were unfounded.
He assured that the statue of Ramses II will not be impacted by the water, and that the museum and all its spaces are in excellent condition.
