From Welshpool to Everest

 

The towns’ Rotary Clubs joined forces with four others to raise funds for a project run by the Nepal Trust to bring hydro-electric power to the Himalayan village of Chyaduk in the Humla District of Nepal. The village, close to Mount Everest, has about 200 people in 40 households.

 

“The fundraising activities and generous contributions of the people of Welshpool and Newtown have substantially assisted this project, and the thanks of the two Rotary clubs go to all,” said Peter Hodgson, Chair, International and Foundation Committee, Rotary Club of Welshpool.

 

“The people relied on burning wood and oils for light and heat, which is dangerous and inefficient. The 4.5kw micro hydro power system, using the local river that does not freeze in the winter, provides them with good lighting and the power to run small hand tools for use in the manufacture of artefacts for sale and for grinding their corn. There is now the opportunity to improve education for the children and to enhance community cohesion. It will also be more possible to promote tourism.”

 

The six Rotary clubs each contributed £1,000 and the Rotary Foundation, Rotary International’s own charity, contributed a further £14,000. The Chyaduk village community provided £3,500 which is an enormous sum for them. Most importantly the local people provided porterage using yaks over very difficult terrain for the components (pictured), and labour to help build the system in the village. The Nepal Trust co-ordinated the whole project with the involvement of the two local Rotary clubs.

 

The Welshpool element of the funding was provided by Peter running the Great North Run in 2009, supported by members of the Welshpool Rotary and Inner Wheel Clubs, family and friends.