Ahhh… the joys of navigating Oaxaca’s sidewalks.
And, this is nothing compared to manholes minus their covers! I tell visitors they must ALWAYS watch where their feet are going; if they feel compelled to look up at the bell towers of a colonial church or at a gal balancing a basket of sweets on her head — STOP, then look!
However, in the absence of municipal action to remedy these hazards to one’s health and safety, Grupo Salvando Vidas Oaxaca (Saving Lives Oaxaca Group), an organization of concerned citizens, has come to the rescue. According to this news report, the volunteer group was born last year after the founder of the group, Manuel Chávez Nuñez saw a disabled person fall into an uncovered sewer drain.
Yesterday, the group, which numbers around 15, set up a display of the wooden covers they use to replace gaps and holes in sidewalks around the city. In addition to showcasing their work and recruiting volunteers, they were collecting donations for materials and giving away free books. What’s not to like?!!!
“Everything that is done is for love… We put ourselves in the place of the other person and get down to work.” (translated from article in today’s Noticias) Grupo Salvando Vidas Oaxaca, those of us negotiating the sidewalks of Oaxaca offer you our very grateful muchisimas gracias!
Now if only someone could do something about vehicles making right and left turns without stopping or signaling. Sigh…
Mexican Peso Converter
View From Casita Colibrí 
Guy-wires are what scare me. I never expect them to be strung out from utility poles into my path on the sidewalk. Gray in color, so easy to miss spotting, their placement almost seems to be a dangerous version of the banana-peel jokes.
Oh, yes!!! I’m constantly watching for and warning the uninitiated not to walk up onto those guy-wires. Bottom line, no multi-tasking when strolling the sidewalks of Oaxaca. 😉
For infracting vehicles, perhaps a drain-cover toss in their path ? Just saying 😉
Que interesante! If I spot one of these, I’ll know what it is all about.