This radio keeps operations manager Chapal Bol in touch with scientists in the field and with the outside world.

Because there are no telephones in this remote area, the radio is a ubiquitous lifeline. The local operator, a woman named Gabi, occasionally calls out over the air to check on people, relay grocery lists, and give and get updates on bridges that are out. During the rainy season, bridges are out a great deal of the time.