ROADS AND BRIDGES IN THE SUKHUMI AREA

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: S
• Document Page Count: 17
• Document Creation Date: December 19, 2016
• Document Release Date: October 19, 2005
• Sequence Number: 1
• Publication Date: October 14, 1948
• Content Type: REPORT

Approved F9,13WPAPel:g99.541ittg4k;PAERPP,02-00457RODI90009a001
ceuNTf',Y, USSR Ormcasur,
SUBjECT
PLACE
ACQLOR ED
DATE C? tWO
25X1X
,
25X1A
-2
Dp, E S7 Ri14. Oatobox. 1.(:, 415
Roads smd Bridges In the Sukhumi Area 110,0F PAGES 1?
25X1A
OA LIBRARY
NO. 0:- LNCL.S. 3
(LISTED BELOW)
25X1
25X1A
r7-,Cj to
25X1
s-uaE
AR.
Nag?th.0.-Na
At the end of 1942 construction was begun on a road from the 0811CagU3
to the Znban, at a time when the Germans were still occupFing the hei us
of the laucasas. During this period the Russians brought mny priseaerl,
chiefly from Georgia (Ttflismlataisi. Datum), who began working hnrri?tir
at the repair and construction of this road.
2. Crews of leborers, having been estEblished at many :,?olnts along the road,
legan their wort simu1tansoue4. The chief starting point %as aonsidorad
to be Autkiali M0031-41020'2), about 39 kilometers from Suthini. since
the roa4 from Sukhumi to Amtkiall could be used at the time When work
was began, ? This road was repaired immediately. It was widened at rsmr
points and pawed with asphalt over its entire length.
4. .EllastrAat,tiall,?getzt, total length 39 kilometer
a. Zsliamiannif(41,(20.59'11-41c101X), total length 17 ki/ometers:
The road, although wide enou4i for two-lane traffic, has am
asphalt surface only four meters in width. It was resurfaced
. during the wax and Is maintained in excellent condition. Ths
asphalt surface to laid en a basis of dirt and taved gravel.
AN
oONFIDENTIAL
CLASSIFICATI
S-3- DISTRIBUTION
tAelE OF VMS 1:00.1hOWC:-T
'
EXCISED BEFORE PUB
Document No.
NO
I
I I
25X1X
25X1
Approved For Release 200'5/11/24 : CIA-RDP82-O$S
Date:
Approved Fo-r-Mt* 2005/11/24 : CIA-RDP82-00457R0)1900
GEITTRAL ItteRIETE AGENCY
2-
1'
25X1A
.390001 -2
P.7.1).E1r
21.1.4zi
b. Sinopi (sic)Bridge (No. 2 on Sketch Map I): this is the first of,
three bridges found on the 17-kilometer stretch of road between
Sukhumi and Merkhanl.. The length of the bridge is eight meters.,
the width four meters. Its height above the surface of the water
is four meters. The bridge is constructed entirely of concrete
and supported on two concrete abutments. The sides are protected
III railings about one meter high consisting of three iron rods
supported hy four cement posts. The roadbed is constructed of con-
crete supported on steel beams; it is surfaced with asphalt. The
co
capacity of this bridge is not marked on it anyWhere,
kelageret,3imMge (No. 3 on Sketch Map I): This bridge crosses the
river of the same name. Its length is 60-70 meters. The bridge
is so narrow that traffic can pass in opposite directions only
with difficulty. The height above the surface of the water is
10-15 meters. The bridge was originally constructed of stone and
was later reinforced with concrete.
The bridge is supported on three piers (1) made of stone with a
cement mortar. It has two steel trusses (3). During the war
these were camouflaged. Green predominated among the colors of
the camouflage. The floor of the bridge is supported on steel
beams (2).
On the steel beams were placed planking and, on top of that,
gravel with a topping of asphalt. I
thickness, of these layers. A sign placed at the Sukhumi end of
the bridge sets a speed limit of 25 kilometers per hour. The
sign at the Merkhanl end of the bridge limits speed to 20 kilo-
25X1 meters per hour. at the east end of the
bridge there is a side road coming from the village of Kelasuri.
The agriculture sdhool, Subtropicheski Tekhnikum, is located about
200 meters north of the bridge on this side road; it is a three-
story structure built on the right bank of the Kelasuri River.
d. Ralshinl Bridge (No. 5 on Sketch Map I):
-- 5E- E gr
Approved Faigaslayle 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457
001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
Approved=1 .--CeasielMetre/A-eetAlkBlee2-041YAR0019003
CENTRAL INTElifeftee4i
- 3 -
25X1A
90001-2
The Merkhaul bridge is located 17 kilometers from Sukeumi. It is
40-50 meters long. Two vehicles can pass only with defficulty.
The bridge is eight to ten meters above the surface of the water.
It is aupported on two abutments constructed of stone with cement
mortar (2). There is one center pier (1) made of concrete. The
roadbed is constructed of steel beams (3), tree traake, and planks,
25X1
25X1
0.
in that order. The planks form the surface of the bridge.
25X1
25X1
1 There ia a railing
about one meter high on each side of the bridge; the ::*ailings are
made of wood with steel posts (4). There is no sign indicating
the capacity of the bridge, and it is very strong.
apelereAddegegeALWA (No. 7 on Sketch Map I): This bridge, which
crosses the Upper Matzarka River, is one kilometer north of the
Herkheel bridge. It is on the gravel roe& which leads from the
village of Herkhaul to the village of Upper Matzaeka; the length
of this road is about 10 kilometers. The Upper Hatzarka Bridge
is 15-20 meters long and is about four meters wide. i
25X1
Z.Perlegeeetelpepetcha:
This bridge, which is of no great
importance, is constructed entirely of wood. It is often destroyed
by the flood waters of the Merkhaul River during the rainy season.
?
.
When the bridge is destroyed, vehicles cross the river without
'great difficulty.
25X1
go
prIgajkl. glATL.404t I: This bridge is about one kilometer
coutheast of the village of Upper Matzarka and is of no great
importance. 1
25X1
r_=.1
^ Zolkialikitlax This bridge is located in the center of the
village of Antkiali.
vsneram..**.??????????*
eielieeTIL
-SMUT
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
9
Approved F?or ktrat. 2nn5i1 1/94 ? CIA-RINDR2-00457R001e
A
MURAL IN
TEISNR/EP 1 1
"Cr COArt,
- 4, -
__4:2-44z
--------..
It is more than 70 meters long. It is wide enough for only one-
lane traffic. It is supported on two abutments (1) constructed
of stone with cement mortar and based on rock. The steel truss
(2) rises from the floor of the bridge. The steel beams (3)
support the floor of the bridge. On these steel beams there is
planking, and on the4 is placed gravel with a topping of asphalt.
25X1 Ithe capacity of the bridge or the thickness
oX the roadbed. The bridge is 10645 meters above the surface of
the water. The river over which it crosses is always full of
water. It is a tributary of the Kodor, into which it flows about'
two kilometers below this bridge, and is subject to sudden floods
durinr the rainy season. There is no sign to indicate the capacity
of the bridge or to limit the speed at which it may be crossed.
i. The asphalt surface of the road from Sukhumi to Antkiall,
tance of 17 (sic) kilometers, is in excellent condition.
Oommeap In paragraph ii above, this distance is stated to ?e 3
kilometers, which is more nearly correct.) It is a two-lane road
with a width of four to six beters. There are ditches on each side
of the road. From Amtkiall to Chepelda is 13 kilometers. Thus
the total length of the road from Sukhumi to Ohepelda is 30 kilo-
meters (sic). The road from Amtkiall to Ohopelda is surfaced
with gravel and is in good condition; maintenance is continuous.
In most places the soil below the road is rocky and firm. This
stretch of the road is wide enough for two-lane traffic, except
at certain points where, however, work of widening the road goes
on from time to time. Along the entire length of this sector of
the road there are spots where the surface is of asphalt, especially
at the turns immediately north of the village of Olginskoye (430026N-
41?1402). Vehicles have no difficulty in going up this road from
gilometer Sour as far as the village of Ohepelda, because the rise
is gradual. From Ohepelda to Amtkiali, a distance of nine kilometers,
the road is surfaced with gravel and is in good condition. The road
is maintained systematically by the organized villages of the region.
The wages of the men who work on the road are paid by the kolkhoz.
The width of the road is four to five meters, wide enough for two-
lane traffic. The road is esaily traversed even during the winter.
a dis-
5. Aatatzlizt-Jjajlitoislx. total length 22 kilometers:
a. There are only two bridges on this entire sector. They are con-
structed entirely of wood and cross small streams. unable
-to determine the exact location of these bridges. I ,
25X1 I both of them were closer to the village of _ata than
to Aatkiali and were not far apart. The length of each of the bridges
is five to eight meters. iaay details regarding
25X1 their corstruction.
25X1
b. Generally, the road has been surfaced with gravel and is ready
to receive a topping of asphalt. An exception is a small stretch
one to two kilometers north of the Amtklall bridge, Where it is
25X1
25X1
25X1A
already surfaced with asphalt. I
--Mehra)
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
Appro17~klelease 2005/11/24 : CIA-RDP82-00457R001900391304-4L7M
CAL IMLLI myr
5 _
COIVr
C. The width of the road is four to six meters, including the Shoulders
on both sides. which are narrow. The clear width of the road is
3.5-4 meters. The road narrows at certain points because of the
nature of the terrain, making it impossible for vehicles to Vass.
Along most of its length the road is wide enough for two-lane
traffic.
de
it
was in excellent condition and the surface was completely smooth.
Two to three kilometers fromAmktiall the road rises gradually,
and from that point to Late it is level. Ne concentrations of
machinery or the like were observed
road.
6. jpata-Ohkelte (430050N-41044gE) 1102z,, total length 19 kilometers:
70
a. There is only one bridge in this sector. It is two to three
kilometers from the village of Ohkalta. This bridge is five to
six meters long and is conetructed entirely of wood. Its roadbed,
however, is covered with gravel. any details
regarding the construction of it. If the bridge is destroyed, its
reconstruction will not be difficult, because the region is thickly
wooded.
25X1
25X1
25X1
b. The road is in the same condition as the Amtkiall-Lata sector.
The only difference is that this sector rises steadily throughout
its length. At only one point is there a cliff at the side of
the road, and at this point there are landslides from time to
time. These block the road and are cleared away by conscripted
labor of peasants taken from that region. Only this one point
is mudAy during the winter months. 1 this point 25X1
was about halfway between Leta and. =mita,
ihkalsciMmumlimia, total length 12 kilometers
a. In this sector of the road there are only two bridges. One of
these is at a distance of 300-400 meters from the village of
Obkalta and was constructed long ago; it is 6-10 meters long and
is wide enough only for one-lane traffic. This bridge is built
entirely of steel, but the roadbed is made of planks.
not know its capacity or any details regarding its construction.
This bridge crosses a small river which is always full of water;
the height of the floor of the bridge above the surface of the
water is four to six meters. The other bridge is about two kilo-
meters from the village of Aaara. It is constructed entirely of
wood. It consists of two sections, each five to six meters long,
and Is wide enough for only one-lane traffic. It was built in
1943-44 and is used only during the winter months; during the
vest of the year vehicles can ford the stream, which has very little
water in it.
b. This sector of the road is similar in construction and condition
to the sector between Lata and Ohkalta. It was built at the same
time. There are only slight grades in this sector, and there are
no cliffs overhanging any part of this sector. During the winter
months there is no mud anywhere on this sector.
8. AzatirAsigiaajjaram total length six kilometers:
a. There Is only one bridge in this sector; it lies 1,000-1,500 meters
from Kensvis. This bridge is constructed of wood. It is about five
meters long and wide enough for only one-lane traffic. The floor
of the bridge is covered with gravel.
CONFIDENT
Jaffa&Si
Approved For For Release 2005/11/24 : C1A-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1 _
25X1
25X1
1I4: 01900390r1_plA
25X1
Approved For ' -a2OOI1
mPL
nESEERET
46ZaUX
6 -
b.
This road has a width
of 3.5-6 meters. It is surface& with well
tamped gravel and
is ready for a topping of asphalt.
25X1
any signs of preparation for garfacing with
asphalt.
Afeuoirdkenal- e
? '
total length 16 kilometers:
a. There is only one bridge, at the edge of the village of Kensvie.
It is entirely of wood six to seven meters long end wide enough
for only one-lane traffic. It is not considered important.
b. The entire road from Kensvis to BelayseBudka Is surfaced with
well tamped gravel. It is in the same condition as the. sector
between Amara and Konsvie. Construction this road was come
pleted? in 1944. Two kilometers beyond the bridge there is a
continuous rise with some easy curves.
3.1.20engESLQ-P-V.M1Nnt:( tR 412-J5IrWiwes
11. The total length of the road is either 29 kilometore or 32 kilometers,
depending on which fork Is taken.
12 lImplanation of attached Sketch Map It:
Eo. 1 and No. 2 indicate four bridges a short distence from each
other. They all cross the same stream and were constructed
in 1947. They are built entirely of concrete and are very
strong. Eanh of the bridges is four to five meters in length
and four meters wide, wide enough for two-lane traffic. The
height of each bridge above the surface of the water is about
three tmeters. The bridges were built by German prisoners-of-
war.
No. 3 is a bridge constructed entirely of wood. It is six to eight
meters in length and four meters in width. It crosses a stream
and is supported on two abutments made of stone. The floor of
the bridge is made of planks. The bridge has a capacity of four
to six tons. Vehicles of greater gross tonnage ford the stream
at a point near the bridge. This bridge is located at Kilometer
7200 (sic).
No. 4 is a bridge located at Kilometer 12.500 (sic).
*
?
1
-
It crosses the Ohumnr, a tributary of the Guraista laver. The
bridge is more than 130 meters long. its
width. In June 1947, this bridge was being constructed of
concrete with a steel frame-work (b). It was to be supported
on l5 concrete piers (a).
the
bridge was being done by workmen taken from the construction
. work on the hydro-electric plant at Sukhumges. All of these
CONFIDENTLII;
e9101110V1
-SKIS
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
e 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-0045
Approved FEENBIS
CENTRAL IIITEMELENOT
- 7 -
7R00190
workman were of Greek descent and were holders of Russian
passports. Instead of inducting them into the army (they
were of military age), the Russian authorities had assigned
them to reconstruction projects.
CONFIDENT.L.
No. 3 is the Ohumur bridge, named for the stream which it crosses.
The length of the bridge is 10-15 meters; it is wide enough
for only one-lane traffic. This bridge is constructed entirely
of wood, except for the two abutments on which it is supported.
The abutments are made of wood but with a ballaet of stone.
I- -
In the side view of this bridge (a) represents the plank floor
of the bridge (it is movable): (b) represents the abutments,
about six meters high, which are framed with timbers and ballasted
with stone; and (c) represents the road at the approaches to the
1\
(I , - I ?
I 4
C,
This second side view represents the bridge when the deck is
raised for high water. In this view, (a) is the movable suspended
floor, which is constructed of planking and is raised by means of
cables when the stream is in flood. (a') is the other position of
the movable floor. It can be moved upwards as much as five meters.
(b) represents the two abutments. (c) represents the road at the
approaches to the bridge. (d) represents plank ramps used when
the bridge floor is raised because of flood water. When the
bridge floor is raised only slightly, vehicles can cross; but,
when it is raised to its maximumelevation, it is used only by
pedestrians. The importance of this bridge lies in the fact
that it is used by the men who work in the B1 Section of Sukhumges.
They have to cross the river as they come from the barracks (No. 8)
where they live to go to work on the construction of the under-
ground. aqueduct (No. 6) through which the eater of the Ohumur
River is carried to Raper (sic).
13. The road from Sukhumi to Sukhumges can be measured in three ways:
a. First, if one follows the east fork of this road, from
Sukhumi to Ohumur, the length of the road is 29 kilometers.
The entire length of this road Is surfaced with gravel. Its
average width is about five meters, although the gravel eurface
without the shoulders is 3.3-4 meters wide. The foundation of
the road is rock; above that is gravel with a topping of fine
crushed rock. Work on this road was begun at the same time that
construction began on the hydro-electric station of SUkhumges.
The road was completed in 1936. It was systematically maintained,
and in 1947 it was in excellent condition.
IhS-3
S E RET
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
Approved Forlaig
2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457
CANTRATA ZaitiT At2;Y:
8 -
0019003
CONFIDENTIAL
b. Second, if one goes from Sukhumi via Akhalehin (sic) to Reper.
the length of the road is 32 kilometers. This road is built
exactly like the road to ?humor. It has some easy curves after
it branches off towards Reper. This fork is at Kilometer 23
from Sukhumi.
c. Third, during the war, a short cut was needed to save time
and a branch road (No. 12 on Sketch Map II) was built which
begins at Kilometer 16. This branch road was finidhed in
/945. It is surfaced with gravel and is in excellent con,.
titian. This section of the road for the most part follows
the Vnkhreska River, which is on the west of the road. East
of the road there are hills. The road is easily traversed,
for most of it is level, and such grades as exist are gradual.
14. There is no bas service on the road from Sukhumi to Sukhuneees. The
road is used almost exclusively by the -employees of the Sukhumges hydro-
electric station, and they are transported in trucks which aieb carry
machinery and foodstuffs from Sukhumi to Sukhumges.
"I'd The underground aqueduct (No. 6 on Sketch Hap II) was constructed to
carry the water of the Chumur River into the VUkhroska River and so to
furnish water power for the hydro-electric station called Sukhumges.
The capacity of this hydro-electric plant is enormous.
know any details resarding the construction of this umderground aqueduct
25X1 but there was considerable fall from Chum= to Roper.
During 1947, work inside and outside the aqueduct on the installatione
of the electric plant and building the dam and the artificial lakes
continued both at Reper and at ?humor,
16. Further explanation of Sketch Map II;
Wo. 7 is the first section of the hydro-electric station of Sukhumges.
Reese there are barracks for housing the workmen engaged in the
construction of the hydro-electric station. The barracks also
house the security and the MVD forces.
No. 8 is the second section of the hydro-electric station. Rere,
too, there are barracks used by the workmen. There are more
workmen housed here than in the first section. Work done at
the section is slight in-comparison with that done at the Beeler
section (i.e., the first section).
No. 9 Is the third section. It consists of buildings used for
recreation by the personnel of Sukhumgee. Rere there are work-
men engaged in gardening; the produce is used to feed. the workmen
of Sukhumges.
EO0 10 marks the area including all the sections included in Sukhumges.
No. 11 is a former monastery called Kaman. It is now used as an old
peoulelshome. Until 1933 it was used to hold prisoners engaged
in growing tobacco and in cutting timber.
agg ?
0201,211,10010
17. The total length of the road from Sukhumi to Mikha Takhakaya is 3.46
kilometers. The road connects the Abkhazian ASR and the Georgian
SSR, which are divided by the Ingur River.' This road is the principal
artery of communication in the Caucasus. For ease in devcription,it
--fitiefFe21
-SEMET
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1 F
Approved Lugar
Ar.
se 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457
OBNTRAL I;IaljtiiTUR0U2
- 9 -
R001900390000W1 A
CONFIDENT I
will be divided into four sections: Sukhumi.6-Ochemehiri (42?410N-
410261B) (total length 54 kilometers), Achemchiri?Galt (420381N-
41043'11) (total length 27 kilometers). Gali-Zugdidi (42031gN-4105B)
(total length 25 kilometer, and Zugdidi?Mikha Tskhakaya (total
length 40 kilometers).
18. In the Sukhumi--Ochemehiri sector there are 18 bridges. Four of these
bridges are large, and their construction will be described below. Of
the remaining fourteen bridges, two are constructed of wood and the
rest are of concrete. Most of the small bridges are not worthy of
notice, since they Cross only small brooks.
a. NaAtaggigadsla is shown in side view below.
s5
Q.
3
The height of this bridge above the surface of the water is .
four to five meters; the length is about 15 meters. The roadway
of the bridge is about three meters wide, which is ineufficient
for two-lane traffic, but there is a border (sic) 1.5 meters wide
on each side of the roadway. The bridge crosses the Matzarka
River in which there is always plenty of water. The bridge is
supported on two abutments (1) of concrete;
remember their exact dimensions. The face of the abutments towards
the river is curved. The roadbed (2) of the bridge is conurete
with a topping of asphelt. The bridge has protective railings (3)
Which are made of steel rods. (4) represents the roadbed at the
approaches to the bridge. This bridge was constructed before the
war. It is very strong, and is in excellent condition (date of
information-1947). If the bridge were destroyed, traffic could be
diverted to a ford which is about 2$ meters south of the bridge.
The ford can be crossed easily during most of the year by American-
made trucks. Russian-made trucks cannot easily ford the stream,
because the carburetor is placed low In their motors.
4
b. Nader Bridee. This bridge is located at Kilometer 18 or 19.
The bridge is about 70 meters in length, and is wide enough for
only one-lane traffic. It is a steel bridge similar to the
Kelasuri bridge, and its roadbed is about seven to eight meters
above the surface of the water. In the side view shown below
(1) represents the abutments made of stone with cement mortar.
(2) is the middle pier of the same construction. (3) is the
floor of the bridge. It is supported on steel beams and is made
of planks. (4) represents the two steel trusses of the bridge.
(5) to the roadway at the approaches to the bridge.
--covET
-41099402)
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R0
Approved For-Redest0.;h
cF,,turaa,
- 10 -
e '0T
25X1
019002900 A01-2
This bridge was built during the time of the Tsars, and has been
maintained in excellent condition.
_calamity. If the bridge were destroyed. communications wouid oe
cut off. because nowhere in the vicinity of the Kodor Bridge is
there any fora edlIch can be negotiated by 'vehicles. The water
of the Kodor laver Is deep for
It receives the waters of several tribataries, the 0hkalta.
Gedivis, Mara, and other rivers.
o. 220,511 P_Ailfax is located at Kilometer 40 on, the road. The cone
struction, length, and other specifications of this bridge are
exactly similar to the Matzarka bridge, except that the Tamesh
bridge in too nareow for two-lane traffic under any circumstances,
The Tamysh Bridge was constructed in 1946 and replaced a previous
bridge made of wood. The Tamsedh River always has deep water, and
there are no fords anywhere in the vicinity of the bridge.
d. lieleeljklilse is located at Kilometer (1. or 50. Thieebridge crosses
the Mokvi River, which is always full of water.
know how deep the river is. About 150 meters south of the bridge
there is a ford used by wagons and automobiles. The bridge con
-
stets of two parts, because a little above the bridge the river
divides into two branches. Mach section of the bridge is con-
structed in the same style, and they differ only a little in
length. A side view of this bridge appears below.
The Mekvi Bridge is supported on two abutments (1), the frame-
work of which consists of tree trunks. This framework is filled
with rock:ballast. (2) represents diagonal supports which prow
tect the abutasetafrom the washing of the river. These diagonal
eupports are also of wood. (3) is the flooring of the bridge,
which consists of planks supported on tree trunks. (4) repre-
sents wooden railings on each side of the bridge. The bridge is
10-12 meters long and is wide enough for only one-lane traffic.
The height of the bridge above the =face of the water is three
to five meters.
e. All the fourteen small bridges between Stikhumi and Ochemchiri
are between three and six meters in length. Some are wide
enough for two-lane traffic, but others are too narrow. All of
them cross rivulete and are of no importance.
f. The entire length (54 kilometers) of the road between Sukhumi
and Ocheuchiri is surfaced with asphalt. The road and its
asphalt surface are more than 10 years old. The width of the
road is four to six meters, and the width of the asphalt surface
is 3e5-4 meters. In 1947, the entire length of the road was in
excellent condition. The whole road is level and without any
significant grades. There are dirt footpaths on either side of
the road, and beyond these are ditches.
--enuntSIT/
--SEERET
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: C1A-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
Approved ForVaie-2005/-1-1124-:-CIAARDP-82-00457601900390001-2
CENTRAL 111SEEREIR GROUP
-11-
11)EbT Ir
g. There are towns and villages all along this road. Host of the
inhabitants are Abkhaz,. or Georgians; KilL
Guloripsh? Brenda, and Ochemchiri). The inhabitants are nearly
all farmers, and there are many bovkhoses.
h. In 1947, public works were being constructed by German prisoners-
of-war and by Russian soldiers and engineers in the vicinity of
Agatsera and Iblasuri. Most of the movement of material in this
vicinity was by railroad, e.g., transportation of cement. lumber,
25X1 machinery. I the quantity of material being
-transported or the kind of machinery.'
25X1
19. The road from Oche:nal-J./Ito Galt has a total length of 27 kilometers.
In this stretch of road there are three large bridges, as follows:
a, Ochemchiri Bridge (Galidzga River). This bridge is 56 kilometers
from Sukkumi. A side view, of this bridge is shown below.
1
The OChemchiri Bridge is about 60 meters long and 3-3.3 meters
wide. The height of the bridge above the surface of the
water is five meters. The abutments (1) are made of wood. The
piers (2) are made of tree trunks. The framework of the roadway
is of wood, and the floor (3) of the bridge consists of planks.
The railings (4) of the bridge are made of wood. The bridge is
not very strong and two-lane traffic is forbidden, although the
bridge is wide enough to accommodate passing cars. The river
is not deep except in winter, when the flood waters often destroy
the bridge at this point. About 100 meters north of the bridge
there is a ford used by vehicles in the summer months.
b. Okygni Bridge is 70 kilometers from Sukhumi. This bridge crosses
the Okumi River. It is built entirely of wood. It is 60-70
meters long but wide enoughfor only one-lane traffic. It is
constructed just like the Ochemehiri bridge. There is a sign
at the approach to the Okumi Bridge which states that the maximum
capacity is 12 tons. About 200 meters north of this bridge there
is a ford negotiable by vehicles. The river-bed at this ford is
sandy.1 an eight-ton loaded truck crossing
25X1
25X1
0. Erich/teli Brig is 79 or 80 kilometers from Sukhumi. It is
located about two kilometers west of Gait and crosses the small
Brichkali River. On each side of the roadway of the bridge there
are sidewalks about 1.5 mo wide. The bridge does not have safety
railings. The bridge is about 12 meters long and is wide enough
for two-lane traffic. There is no sign indicating the capacity
do The road from OdhemChiri to
in 1947 it was in excellent
road and the width are just
Sukhumi to Ochemdhiri. with
--SWANS
Approved For Relea
Gall is surfaced with'asphalt. and
condition. The construction of the
like those of the section from
the exception that from Ochemdhiri
OMMILL
7R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1.
25X1
Approved Forillettentie
te005/11/24 : CIA-RDP82-00457R0
ORNMAI, AGENCY
- 12 -
25X1A
019003
90001-2
to Gall there it a gentle rise. There are not many inhabited.
places along this sectioa of the road. At Eilometer 66 from
Sukhumi there is a tea factory and near this there is a sovkhoz
where tea is grown.
20. The road froe_Gali to Zugdidi has a total length of 25 kilometers. Along
this entire section of the rooi there to only one bridge worth mentiening,
that over the Ingur River. Besides this bridge there are smaller bridged
wide enough for only one-lane traffic and about five meters long On the
average, All of them) small teidges are made of wood, except two which
are constructed of concrete. Meese bridges cross rivulets, but two or
three of them have some signilicance because their destruction would
interrupt road communicationc,.
a.
lignelleklgee Untie the beginning of 1946, this bridge was built
of wood with concrete pices. At this time the piers failed, and
the Russians were ;ompellsd to remove them and to replace the
bridge with a feriy, work
had began at the rame place on the construction of a new bridge.
The work at that etme was confined to the foredetions of the piers.
The bed of the rkver is seedy, and the foundations of the piers
have to go down fe) a depth of 20 meters. The new bridge will be
made entirely o: steel. .;b will be more than 150 meters long,
because the Meer is wide, hew deep the
river is, altbragh it is evidently quite deep. Because the
current is stIong, there are no fords, not even at the season
When the wate- of the river is low. This difficulty is increased
by the fact tit one bank of the river is veer steep. The wooden
bridge that wes removed was hastily constructed during the war
b. The road ;tem Gall to Zugdidi is surfaced with asphalt.
25X1 how it eas constructed beneath the surface. It
is wide raeugh for two-lane traffic, and in some places for three
lane tra:fic. There are streams on both sides of the road, whidh.
is at leapt four metees wide. The surface of the road is smooth
and in excellent condition. There were no dangerous points agywhere
along ;his road. There are inhabited places all along this road.
21. The se ion of the road from Zuedidi to Mikha Tskhaleeya has a total
length o: 40 kilometers. There are two noteworthy bridges in this
soction,but there are not more than two to four small bridges, all
.lade oe'concrete, in this section of the road.
a.
BeAge seven to eight kilometers south of the city of Zugdidi2 This
Irlka is made of steel andis supported on abutments of stone. The
ftamwork of the roadbed of the bridge is of steel, and the floor
ef planks. There are iron railings at the sides of the bridge.
ebe bridge is about eight meters long, and it is wide enough for
onelane traffic. 1
ba eieettleikAL crosses the Rhobi River. The bridge is constructed
Int/rely of concrete. Sven the roadbed of the bridge is made of
4onorete. The bridge is about 10 meters long and is wide enough
Or two-lane traffic, except that two trucks have difficulty in
?ageing. The cuirent is not very strong where the river passes
the briege, but the water is deep.
?MUT/
?
Approved For Relea
e 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R0C
1900390001-2
Approved Fzatitei
-e 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457
CENTRAL IE
Tt61.
-13-
R001900390200 A
c. The road from Zugeidi to Mikba Tekhekeea is surfaced with as:ph:alt.
The road is smooth and in excellent condition.
td from Sulchunj tokart
(11122P1N-40.2111,11)
22. The total length of the road from Sukhumi to Gagri is 106 kilometers.
It may be considered in four sections: Sakhumi-Novi Afonski (43005IN-
400504B) (20 kilometers); Novi Afonski-Guddate (43000N-400361N) (25
kilometers); Bb-Gagri (15 kilometers).
23 The road from Sukhumi to Gagri has five or six large bridges. Of the
other 10 small bridges, the majority cross rivulets; the largest of
these are the Novi Afonski bridge and another (of steel) situated at
Kilometer 14.
a. The Gumista BridRe is located at Kilometer 6,
two parts. Side and top views of this bridge are shown below.
It consists of
,
III
:
The hill (5) lies between the 1/0-573 the bridge . Nadh of
the two parts is supported on two abutments (1) and on one pier
(2), all constructed of stone with cement mortar. The framework
of the bridge is made of steel beams. and the floor (3) of the
bridge is of planks. , The sides (4) of the bridge are protected
by steel railings. Thietotal length of the bridge. including the
top of the hill in the center. is 50,-55 meters. The combined
length of the two sections of the bridge, not including the top
of the hill, is 40-45 meters. The bridge is wide enough for
onlyone-lane traffic. It was constructed long ago but is in
excellent condition. Its height above the surface of the river
is 10-15 meters. A few meters south of this bridge there Is a
ford which can be negotiated by vehicles during the summer months.
-The bed of the river at the point where the ford is situated is
sandy. This bridge is about one kilometer distant from the
seasehore.
b. gazuzzalukagra, is situated at Kilometer 20 and is in the
town of Novi Afonski. It is seven to eight kilometers long.
It is wide enough for only one-lane traffic. It is supported
on two stone abutments. Th a framework of the bridge is made
of steel, and its roadway is eurfaced with asphalt. There is
no sign stating Its capacity. The distance of this bridge from
the seashore is about 150 meters. The height of the bridge
above the surface of the water is about three meters.
--OM/VIA
---StERET
-CONFIDENTIAL
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
Approved For Rale
1m5111/94 ? ('.IA-RINDR9-00457R
OENTRALlagOliik AMINO%
-14 -
)0190039e
25X1A
001-2
0. Actorandara Bridee is located at Kilometer 38. It crosses the
Aohyandara River. A side view of this bridge appears below.
do
The bridge is sup2orted on two abutments (1) made of concrete.
The whole bridge is made of steel (3). The roadway (2) consists
of steel beams and is surfaced with asphalt. The bridge is about
15 meters long and is wide enough for only one-lane traffic. The
height above the surface of the water is four to fire meters.
env fords in the vicinity of this bridge. The
river has plenty of water throughout the year. The bridge is very
old, but it is in excellent condition.
Quclauty Btkilge lies at the eastern edge of the town of Oudeett7.
The construction of the bridge is just like that of the Achyandara
bridge, except that the roadway consiote of planking. The Oudauty
bridge is 10-12 meters in length and is wide enough for only one-
lane traffic. There is not much water in this river.
auly fords in the vicinity of the bridge. The railroad
track is about 200 meters north of this bridge, which is about
100 meters from the coast.
e. Reetlka Bridge is 53 kilometers from Sukhumi. It crosses the
Bethke River and is eight kilometers west of the Oudauty Bridge.
The length of this bridge is about 20 meters; it is wide enough
for only one-lane traffic. The height above the surface of the
water is five to six meters. The abutments are made of timber
with a ballast of rock. The roadway is made of tree trunks with a
surface of planking. The railings are Made of wood. The river
is wide but does not have much water in it. North and south of
the bridge the'river can be forded during the summer months.
There is no sign stating the capacity of the bridges The roadway
and the supports of the bridge receive regular maintenance. The
seashore is a considerable distance from the bridge and cannot
be seen from it.
OberneyaRechkaBriglee is 58 kilometers from Sukhumi. It crosses
the Oherne,ya Rechka River. The bridge is built of wood and is
supported on two abutments. It is about 10 meters long and is
vide enough for only one-lane traffic, i.e., 3-3.5 meters wide.
Its height above the surface of the water is 3-3.5 meters. The
river flows slowly at this point, but the water is deep and is
25X1 rich in fish. I lany fords in the vicinity of
the bridge. The sea is at a considerable distance from the bridge
and cannot be seen from it.
25X1
g. Beet Bridge is 91 kilometers from Sukhumi. It Crosses the Bet')
River Which is wide and deep. The banks of the river near the
--MARV
Approved For Release 2005t111247-CtiM171,82700467R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
Approved Fo1-444144Q
2005/11/24 : CIA-RDP82-00457R0C
. CENTRAL IlizaleAGENCY
-13-
190
25X1
COIST2771)02).14t, ?
3
ikkAIA
4# AA
The length of this bridge is 38-40 meters. It is wide enough
for two-lane traffic with a sidewalk five meters (sic) wide.
The framework of the bridge is steel. The roadway is made of
planking with a topping of asphalt (3). The bridge is supported
on two abutments (1) made. of concrete and on one central pier (2) '
which is set on a diamond-ihaped base of concrete (3). The bridge
has two trusses (4). The bridge is very old, but its floor was
replaced in 1943-46. In the winter months, the Bsyb River has a
very strong current and carries down huge rocks. These can be
seen during the summer, When the river is shallow.
h. tram SUkhumi to Gagri the road is surfaced with asphalt 3.3-4
meters wide, vide enough for two-lane traffic. It is maintained
In excellent condition. There are two danger points in this
stretch of road. The first is between Kilometers 11 and 14. After
the road crosses the Gumista Bridge it turns to the south. i.e.,
towards the sea, for three kilometers because the ground gives
way. There is no flowing water visible to wash away the earth..
but. it appears that underground streams cause the ground to give
way. The road is temporarily strengthened with logs to enable
vehicles to pass over it, but each time it is finally abandoned
and completely rebuilt in a new place. The ground does not give
way at any one time of the year, but continuously and gradually.
Nor this reason, a new road has been built from Sukhumi to Novi
Afonski Which passes north of the foot of the mountain. .The
second danger point is between the Ghernaya Reclaim Bridge and
the Bb Bridge Where therearea steep grade and maw curves.
I.
24. The new road from Sukhumi to Novi Afonskl, built for the reason stated
in paragraph 23 h, above, is longer than 20 kilometers (the lenRth of
w.me,une roan was being surfaced with asphalt. It was wide enough for
two-lane traffic, and there was a ditch on each side of it. The new
bridge over the Gumista River had also been built in 1945.
-S-MET
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457RAMOWM-
OMET1
25X1
25X1
k 25X1A
Approved For Fr1ttgail1900
GENDULTSEIMPAGIINCY
- 16 -
hlitfi2ILPA9tliLaPa_inL_?El.-ilgaIEL.
a There are three bus lined running outof Sukhumi.
a. There is a bus line from Sukhumi to Gagri. The distance of 106
kilometers is covered in four to five hours. There are stops at
Novi Afonski. Gudaaty. Muzin. and Gagri.
haw many busses are used and does not know how often they run.
26.
25X1
25X1
25X1
b. The second bus line is from Sukhumi to Ochemchiri. The distance
of 54 kilometers is covered in 2i to 3 hours. Stops are made at
Matayanka. Guliripsel. Brands, Roder, Tatsya, Ridri, Tamysh. and
Ochemehiri.
c. The third line runs from Sukhumi to Ghepelda. The distance is
coveredain about two hours. There are stops at Matrarkie
Merkhaul, Olginskoye, and Ghepelda.
d. Russian ZIS busses and various types of German busses are used
on these lines. Most of them have old bodies with canvas tops.
Whereas the busses used within the city of Sukhumi have compare,-
tively new bodies and are in good condition.
? '1
S e.ch .11
This sketch map includes the section of the highway from Sue-hued to
Gagrid
In which has been described above.
(paragraphs 22-23), It gives the position of the principal bridges on
this road. with the railroad in this region.
This Leap also shows the new road, co lobed ia 1948. Whtch runs Iron
Sukhumi to Novi Afonski along the foot of the mountain. It also shows
the section of the old road between Kilometers 11 and 14 which has
repeatedly been moved towards the south, i.e., towards the sea. The
map also gives the section of the road between the Beyb Bridge and
Bridge No. 16 on the wmy to Lake Rita.
The following
points are marked on the sketch maps
No. 1 is the city of SUkhumi.
No. 2 is the railroad tunnel, which is about 1,500-2,000 meters long.
No. 3 is the Gumista Bridge.
No. 4 is the Novi Afonski Bridge.
No. 5 is the Achyandara Bridge.
No. 6 is the Gudauty Bridge.
No. 7 is the Belaya Rechku Bridge.
No. 8 is the Ohyerneya Beelike Bridge.
No. 9 is the Beyb River Bridge.
No. 10 is the village of Gagri.
No. 11 is the lighthouse of the town of Pichuda.
that Pichuda was used. as a naval harbor during
No. 12 is the lighthouse at Gudauty.
No. 13 is the lighthouse at Novi Afonski.
No. 14 is the lighthouse at Srkhumi.
*E4
the war.
Approved For Release 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
25X1
Approved Fore 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP82-00457R0019
OBITTRAL QM AGENCY
NC. 13 is the bridge over the %mists. River (NU. 4 on Sketch flan II).
It is on the road from Sukhumi to SOkhumges.
No. 16 is the concrete bridge over the Bsyb River. It is about 13-20
meters low and wide enough for two-lane traffic. I
1 The road leading from the
Bgtb Bridge towards Lake Ritsa is surfaced with asphalt is wide
enough for two-lane traffic andis in excellent condition. From
the Blyb Bridge to about Kilometer 18 there is no other bridge.
The Bsyb Bridge is the first bridge on the road to Lako Ritsa.
Three sketch maps attadhed,
St e E T
Approvelse 2005/11/24: CIA-RDP62-0045 /R001900390001-2
25X1
25X1
25X1