Caucasus – The civil society of Abkhazia, with a population of approximately 300,000, shows resolution in its recent efforts to minimize traffic accidents. Over 1,000 Abkhazians have died in traffic accidents since 1993.
Drivers drove on Tuesday their cars at 40 km/h to Kelasur from Novii in the capital city of
Sukhum in an attempt to demonstrate care for travel safety. The traffic police even accompanied the cars. Arda Inal-ipa, second manager of the Center for Social Programs, said that this kind of an activity came out with support from both civilian and youth organizations. "We chose to handle the problem of traffic for a reason: It concerns everybody. We can do something to improve the situation. Everybody should increase their level of responsibility and respect for others. Otherwise, traffic accidents cannot be stopped from causing further casualties. Over 1,000 Abkhazians alone died in traffic accidents after the war."
This civilian activity will last for the next two weeks. Diana Kerselyan, Coordinator for the Sukhum Media Club, said that information for traffic rules will be available for city residents in signposts across the city. KU/ÖZ/FT
