This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Katie Richards.
To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to repair the well in Diam Diam Saly.
Katie reports:
The project was finished approximately one week ago. We started in early May with the purchase of cement from the nearby town of Koungheul and proceeded to transport the sacks (totaling about 2 tons) 21 kilometers back to the village of Diam Diam Saly via horse-drawn carts.
Initially, the internal structure of the well that had collapsed in previous rainy seasons was repaired by a local mason specializing in well work. The mason was actually lowered the 32 feet down into the well by a system of ropes and pulleys and gradually passed down the cement needed for the repair.
After this phase of the repair was complete, a large portion of the remaining cement was used to make bricks for the external structure. Masons living within the village were hired to construct the walls surrounding the well and reinforce the platform such that future erosion water will not damage the integrity of the well.
Finally, this past week, the remaining funds were used to purchase a large amount of rope and a brand new pulley for the well.
Water Charity funds purchased cement, piping for water drainage out of the platform, labor, and the rope and pulley.
The well reparation has finished just in time for the start of the rains in this region. The whole community is very thankful to have a sturdy well and potable water year round.
We are grateful to Katie for completing this project, and again wish to thank The Andando Foundation and Katie’s family and friends for providing the funding.
