"Woman's taxi" project reminds role of Islam in Chechnya

The advertisement of the taxi service exclusively for women caused a lively discussion in Chechnya. Some residents criticized the departure from secular norms; others believe that the project is consistent with Islam and Chechen customs.

Special taxis will be called "Mekhkari" ("Girls" as translated from the Chechen language). Only women drivers will work in the taxi company.

"The service organizers believe that it will be very convenient from the viewpoint of the republic's traditions. Many women refuse to use taxi, because the religious norms prohibit them from travelling in a car with an unknown man," the RIA "Novosti" reports.

The "woman's taxi" project in Chechnya will be funded by the Sheikh Zayed Foundation.

Locals have ambiguously assessed the project. Some see it as a further Islamization of the society; others called it compliant with Chechen traditions.

"In my opinion, there is no particular sense in creating the 'woman's taxi' service. It's rather a desire to show Arab investors that religious standards are strictly followed in Chechnya," said Apti, a resident of Grozny.

Murad, a Chechen taxi driver said that he had no problems with transporting female passengers.

Roza, a student of a madrasah in Grozny, believes that public transport should be made separate for women.