CAIRO — A new phenomenon is catching the attention of passersby in the streets of Giza: young women directing traffic.

In an experiment that began in early September, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, in collaboration with the Interior Ministry and Giza governorate, are turning to women ages 18-25 to direct traffic. If the program succeeds, authorities will consider implementing the same experiment in all Egyptian governorates, according to statements by Giza Gov. Khaled Zakaria al-Adly.

Fifteen young Egyptian women are taking part in the experiment to help traffic police at a number of traffic lights in Giza, in coordination with the General Directorate of Traffic. The women are dispatched at Giza Square, al-Nahda Square, Mostafa Mahmoud Square, Kit Kat Square, Orman Garden, at the intersection of Lebanon and Shehab streets, and in front of the Giza governorate council.

Traffic problems are significant and dangerous in Egypt. A 2012 World Health Organization report estimates some 8,000 people die in Egypt every year in car accidents, many of which result from traffic violations.