Renovation of Etseri Road Underway, But Concerns About Quality
A neighbor recently contacted me about a dispute with my fuel company. I had been working on editing photos from their graduation celebrations when they called to complain that I was not entitled to the remaining 30 GEL from my 60 GEL fuel fee because I had taken a ride to get to the final destination.
This incident left me feeling angry and disgusted. All I wanted was an apology.
The neighbor’s complaint overshadowed another important issue: the planned renaming of Etseri Public school after one of the four young men who died in the war against Abkhazia two decades ago. However, the event has been marred by last-minute invitations, missed deadlines, and various mishaps that have left me discouraged.
Instead, I want to focus on a more positive development: the renovation of the 2-km road leading up to the main Zugdidi-Meestia highway, which passes through our village. The project has been anticipated for some time now and is finally underway.
Workers are laying down little rebar posts with red and white ribbons along the road, which resembles a former riverbed. They will be staying in a local family‘s home for 700 GEL per month. First, they dug trenches to allow water to run along the road.
I am uncertain whether we will get tarmac or cement on the road, but there is excitement among locals about its potential completion. I have been trying to explain to the mayor and others that a well-made road is crucial for our community’s quality of life.
As an example, I mentioned a recently built road in Ambrolauri Racha that was laid down during my last fall’s Georgian journey. Unfortunately, it was not finished properly and looked heartbreakingly bad even before erosion could take its toll. Another 10 km stretch between the main Racha highway and my wife’s ancestral village was also tarmaced but ended up being shoddy and embarrassing.
To prevent similar incidents from happening again, I propose that we get to know the workers, their companies, and spread the word about how we can ensure a good job is done. How can a worker be proud of their work if it’s not well-made? A good worker should be valued above all else.
My mood is cautiously optimistic as I hope for the best but also recognize that hard work and encouragement from others will be necessary to bring this project to fruition. I urge everyone to stay vigilant and not get deceived by what seems to be happening right in front of our eyes.