As many as 490 samples taken from the area, which witnessed the sinking of a vessel loaded with phosphate, tested negative, said a report compiled by Irrigation Ministry.

All samples taken by the Health Ministry and the drinking water and sanitary drainage company tested negative, said the report which was sent to Dr. Hossam Moghazy, the Minister of Irrigation.

The water is completely safe and valid for all uses, the report said.

A vessel with 500 tons of phosphate on board sank in the Nile River branch in Qena on Tuesday.