Aceh

Lhokgna and its neighbouring village of Lampuuk were hit by 90 foot waves on 26 December 2004; every home was destroyed and only 10% of the population survived. In nearby Banda Aceh over 200,000 people died. It was the worst natural disaster for 500 years.

Destruction and growth

Lhokgna did not just rebound. It went further than this. Discussing life before and after the tsunami with locals it becomes clear that while the waves had devastating costs, they also brought changes that the locals value. It is hardly believable when looking at photos of this town in January 2005--smashes, crippled and in tatters--or hearing about families lost. But the town has rebuilt, and the people here say that both the economy and society are stronger than before. The perplexing truth is that natural disasters can be good for growth. Understanding why helps clarify the miracle of Aceh's rebound.