An Unexpected Return to Vapi

WestRock’s India operations have been having a “rough patch”, and Lon was asked to come back as a consultant. He’s been here for five weeks. I had difficulties getting a tourist visa, but after four weeks, it finally went through, so I’ve been back here for a week. We return to the States tonight.

I had a great week back in Vapi -- it really does feel like our second home. I wish it had been longer. It takes a few days to adjust to the time change, and just about that time, it’s time to head back home.

For the most parts, Vapi’s streets have improved. This neighborhood added a nice even layer of crushed rock and now has sidewalks (or “footpaths” in Indian English).

Another view of the new sidewalks.

I’d wanted to take a picture of this for quite a while and finally got around to it. Getting a car is a big deal and requires a proper ceremony!

This trip I got to visit the Morai village school that is right next to WestRock’s Morai mill. About 60 students in Standards 1 through 4 study in a 2-room school. The school was established over 100 years ago!

Shoes are always left outside.

Muddy footprints on the stairs at the Vapi train station look like inspiration for a fabric print.

Lon was “felicitated” by the hourly workers at the milll. (Quite unusual). This is one of the three bouquets of roses we got, along with a shawl and three Ganeshas -- Ganesha’s big festival starts tomorrow. While expensive by Indian standards, flowers are a bargain here. I doubt if this arrangement cost more than $10 -- it has over 2 dozen roses by my count.