Saturday 17^th February

Today we had an expedition up to the dam which is being built for the new hospital hydroelectric scheme. It is about 2-3km from the nearest vehicle access but we in fact had walked the 4 km to get to the start point so it was a good 2 hour walk. The walk gets very steep with some narrow paths once the road is left behind When you get to the site it is amazing how much has been transported up all carried by local people. Although it is all taking shape there is a lot to do and progress has been gradual but nevertheless when you see the conditions under which the work is being done it is a miracle it is happening at all! It made an interesting Saturday mornings walk.

 

Very heavy laden pickup on the road to the dam

  

Steep walk for 2-3km to the dam

  

Trying to hammer into the hard volcanic rock to ensure the wire supports for the dam will be secure.

 

View of the dam area with the sluice channel open

 

Water rushing throught where te sluice gate will be sited

 

Spectacular scnery but steep country to walk in!

Yesterday when we were out walking we passed one of the local brick kilns which was being fired. It looked very hot work for the boys left to tend the fires

 

Brick kiln for producing locally made bricks.

It has remained very hot with temperatures well into the 30s during the day and night time temperatures of 29 making it feel very sticky indeed when you are trying to sleep.

A new friend has taken up residence. They are very welcome as they eat some of the many mosquitoes. They usually spend their time climbing the walls but this particular one decided to hitch a ride!

 

The gecko who came for a ride!