Giza pyramids get new security fence.

24 Aug, 2008

A 20 km fence complete with infrared sensors, security cameras and alarms has been erected around the three Giza pyramids and the Sphinx as part of efforts to keep hawkers and touts away from the area and protect the monuments. Visitors will now enter the site through a large brick building equipped with metal detectors and X-ray machines. The changes are part of a $27 million project to improve facilities at the 5,000-year-old site, which also includes the installation of a new lighting system and the creation of a visitor centre, cafeteria and bookshop. However some traders have protested against the new fence, which they say will prevent them from accessing the site to earn a living.