One of the reasons we were evacuated for the earthquake was that PC could not guarantee that we could have access to life flights in case of emergency. That is something that PC does not mess with - medical care. With the shortage of fuel, we have been thinking about what could happen if PC again cannot guarantee life flights for emergencies. It is difficult to say because the situation can change quickly both directions. The EAP (Emergency Action Plan) has not been activated at any stage yet, but if no change happens that may need to change.
Thankfully, there are reports of vehicles coming in with petrol to help with the shortage. PC has been keeping us updated as they can in this strange holding situation. From their recent communicate, I am choosing to infer that barring anything else happening - other measures will not need to be taken for at least a month. That being said, there is every chance that something else could happen OR that things will happen to stop the fuel shortage!
While this has been going on, Nepal has also FINALLY begun to change seasons! I don’t think I have ever been more appreciative of autumn coming than now. I enjoy all seasons, but this summer has been extremely hot since I have not worn clothes that I typically would wear in the States during hot weather. Shorts and tank tops are not exactly village appropriate…you could wear them, but I don’t want anymore marriage proposals…
It has been a unique experience for me ‘cause Nepalis didn’t find the hot weather all that hot while I dripped in sweat. The mornings and evenings have become much cooler and Nepalis feel that it is cold, putting on jackets and long sleeves while I find it nice, wearing clothes that I had been dripping in not too long ago! I am not too surprised at their reaction to the cold as it was the same when I first moved here about a year ago, but having lived through a summer for the first time - there is more of a contrast.
I have also finally planted the Moringa at two health posts. My other two died probably because I was not able to plant them sooner. I have begun to sprout more just in case I may need to leave sooner than planned… This experience has us thinking that we have the most interesting volunteer service EVER in PC. What country is evacuated after a natural disaster, returned with being unable to travel and just as the restrictions are lifted - a fuel shortage occurs that if continues could cause another evacuation?!
Don’t get me wrong. Every PCV has their own unique experience as we all live in different countries and villages. Many have experienced evacuating due to different circumstances over the 50+ years PC has sent volunteers. I am just not sure how many could say they have been evacuated or (in our case) close to have been evacuated twice. Time will tell what ends up happening!