Keeping the lights on in the Hidden Himalayas

Dear friends and supporters.

I have very little to report due to the problems created by the Covid 19 pandemic. Although Humla is one of the least affected districts in Nepal the government lock down means that there is no movement in or out of the district. All flights to the small mountain airstrip in Simikot are cancelled for now and as there are no roads walking in is the only option and it can take many days to reach Simikot.

However it does not stop some locals from attempting to get back to their villages. A most recent case is someone tested positive in Surkhet, south of Humla, and who was arrested in the village of Ghoti in Humla. This is just one example of the dangers of foot movement in such remote areas. The national infection rate is now over 60000 people with little signs of a slow-down. All internal flying is stopped and markets closed. The main religious festival Dashain is due at the beginning of October and this will be a major test of how effective  lock down measures are.

On a more positive note I can tell you that we have managed to install solar electricity to one of our new schools in Bargaun village near Simikot. The pupils now have light and power and can use computers, etc. A major advance in this remote area.

By our next report we can only hope that the situation has improved and we have more positive news to tell you. There is no doubt that after such a lengthy period of inactivity repairs will be required, parts replaced and new bulbs required!

Thank you for your support and staying with us through such difficult times. We will continue to need support for some time yet so please tell your friends and colleagues about us.

Take care yourseves and stay safe.

Namaste.