Food, necessities rise in price in Batumi

Food and necessities have risen in price in Batumi, Ajaria, which worries local residents. This is what the Georgian television company Mze reported on Monday.

The price of meat had been five to six laris (about USD3) before the explosion of bridges to the republic, according to the television company. Prices for meat doubled to 10-11 laris a kilogram after the explosion. "Prices continue to go up in Ajaria. The price of fuel and other necessities is expected to rise, too," the television company says.

The situation in Batumi remains strained, movement about the city requires special passes, Mze notes. Local residents are prohibited from moving about the city after 11 p.m. 

The city is patrolled by armed officers of various law enforcement agencies in specially equipped vehicles. Passers-by in the streets and private vehicles are regularly examined. The streets in Batumi are lit by searchlights fixed on high buildings, Mze reports.

The television company notes security has been stepped up at all strategic facilities, including the port of Batumi and the area adjoining the Black Sea coast. Evening strolls along the beach are absolutely prohibited.