Tsunami

The Indian Ocean tsunami in December 2004 was a disaster of unprecedented proportions, killing over 220 000 people in 12 countries.

In the worst-affected region of Indonesia, the death toll was more than 165 000, while in India the disaster affected over 20 000 km of coastline and claimed over 16 000 lives.

Assessments confirmed the fisheries sector was hit worst. Crops and livestock as well as coastal ecosystems, including mangroves and tree crops, also suffered serious damage.

Reconstruction offers an opportunity not only to restore livelihoods and rehabilitate ecosystems to pre-tsunami levels, but to “build back better,” so improving the wellbeing of poor and vulnerable communities.

FAO’s emphasis is on rebuilding the livelihoods of vulnerable fishing and farming families while ensuring their capacities are rebuilt in line with the requirements of sustainable resources and better environmental protection.