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Rebuilding Communication Infrastructure in Nepal
Rebuilding Communication Infrastructure in Nepal
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Rebuilding Communication Infrastructure in Nepal

 
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In 2015, Nepal was hit with a devastating 7.6 magnitude earthquake that left the country in ruins. Three years later, I was given the opportunity to volunteer with the Australia Defence Force outreach program to help rebuild a rural community in the mountains of Nepal.
 
As part of the team, I underwent intense training for 6 months as a copper cabling technician and network installer. We were tasked with bringing reliable internet and phone communication to 40 villages that were heavily affected by the earthquake.
 
But the journey wasn't just about laying cables and setting up networks. We also had to be physically fit, acclimated to the high altitudes, and trained in survival skills such as rope climbing and snow navigation.
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Once we arrived in the village, we worked with local charities to bring medical supplies, sanitation training, and education to the community. Our mission was no easy feat, as we had to dig deep trenches to protect our supplies from being looted.
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(We started with them this deep as a test and it was a colossal fail)
 
But the most rewarding moment came when we had some down time and I got the chance to teach school children how to use the internet they just gained access to. It was amazing to see their faces light up as they explored new things and I still receive emails from them telling me how much they have learned.
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However, the journey wasn't without challenges. I suffered from altitude sickness and even fell ill from gastro and also from drinking contaminated water. Due to the weatehr i could not be airlifted out so I was forced to push through and hiked for 3 days to get to the nearest road and get medical help.
 
Once at the hospital, I learned I had recieved blood-alkaline poisoning which is normally fatal, I was lucky to be alive.
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Although I was unable to see our project to completion, the experience was life-changing. I made lifelong friends, learned so much about myself and others, and discovered that I am capable of overcoming challenges.
 
If you're looking for an adventure that will push you to your limits and reward you with meaningful experiences, I highly recommend volunteering in Nepal. The people are friendly, the food is delicious, and the scenery is breathtaking. Just remember, drink at your own risk!
 

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