powerless
The consequences of failed power distribution in Nepal
A family huddled around a fire at night to keep warm, while temperatures drop to freezing point in the Kathmandu Valley.
Occasionally stores are powered by diesel generators. Due to fuel shortages these power sources are disappearing more and more, leaving the streets of Kathmandu in darkness. Here a man sells battery powered flashlights.
Despite having several power plants in Nepal, the predominantly indian financing has obliged Nepal to distribute most of the power produced back to India in return for loans. A boy warming himself in the morning hours in Kathmandu.
A family making way from their fire for the passing cars in Kathmandu.
A vegetable market at dusk on Durbar Square, Kathmandu.
Youths grabbing a bite to eat at a stall near Boudnath, Kathmandu
Despite having a rotating power distribution system among the different districts of Kathmandu, the average time without power is 14 hours a day. As of February 2012, the time without power will be increased to 16 hours a day.
Women selling butter lamps at a shrine near Durbar Square, Kathmandu
A man warming his hands at a roadside fire. Gaushala, Kathmandu
A shopkeeper working in his candle lit store. Durbar Square, Kathmandu
A generator-run fish store.
A generator-run butchery, selling a chicken to a mobile customer.
christopher@klettermayer.com www.cklettermayer.com