After passing through Chiquinta, we entered an area that is managed by the hidroelectric company. It is gated and requires a permit in order to enter. Upon entering, there are miles of large pipelines. 
As you continue driving, you encounter a reservoir. It had begun to rain and had become a bit foggy, making the small dirt roads a bit treacherous. 
Despite the inclimate weather, the views were incredible. 
In addition to the miles of pipeline, there are miles and miles of concrete aquaducts for channeling the water to the reservoirs and on to Cuenca. 
Some of the hillsides are sheer cliffs with little or no vegetation. 
More pipelines. 
The pipelines had a diameter of around 50 inches. 
Our journey continued until we reached the end of the road, a dam, which seemed to have a height comparable to Hoover Dam. 
Over the gorge was a foot bridge. 
The water rushed through the valves of the dam. 
The reservoir, Tanque de Tuni, was stunning. 
Mick, Nikolas, Angie, and Jim. 
There was some unusual vegetation. 
We were a bit higher than Cuenca, the temperature was considerably cooler. Despite the altitude and temperature, it was time for a coffee break and some of Angie's mango scones. 
The pipeline can be seen in the distance. 
Some of the concrete work. 
The valleys were beautiful. 
There were many wildflowers. 
This is the result of a large landslide. 
Cuenca is in the distance. 
This is Jose, the gatekeeper. 
The vistas that we saw were some of the most beautiful that we've experienced here. The surrounding mountains have innumberable rivers that as a combined force, have a tremendous amount of power. The water in the reservoirs are used both as potable water and for the production of electricity for Cuenca. This was an unbelievable engineering feat and shows the resourcefulness of the Ecuadorian people. What a great adventure.Until next time,
Mick and Kathy
No comments:
Post a Comment