Rising from the Rubble: How Taomi Community Became a Beacon of Hope 25 Years After the Devastating 921 Earthquake
Taiwan and Japan Mark 25th Anniversary of 921 Earthquake with Community Rebuilding Forum
Today marks the 25th anniversary of the devastating 921 earthquake that struck Taiwan. To commemorate this occasion, over 30 scholars and experts from Japan and Taiwan gathered at the “Taiwan and Japan Earthquake Disaster Community Reconstruction Forum” in Puli, Nantou.
The forum aimed to share experiences and strategies on disaster prevention, reconstruction, and community development. Junichi Tatsuta, Deputy Director of the Crisis Management Department of Japan’s Hyogo Prefectural Government, presented a case study on Hyogo Prefecture’s recovery from the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995.
Tatsuta explained that the earthquake resulted in over 6,000 deaths and 250,000 homes partially collapsed or destroyed, with economic losses totaling 10 trillion yen. In response, Hyogo Prefecture implemented a comprehensive disaster relief system, including disaster prevention organizations, insurance, and manpower. This approach was later adopted in response to the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the 2016 Great Kumamoto Earthquake, and the Noto Peninsula Earthquake.
Transforming Taomi Community into a Thriving Model
Liao Jiazan, Chairman of the New Hometown Cultural and Educational Foundation, shared the success story of the Taomi community in Puli, which was severely affected by the 921 earthquake. Initially, the community faced significant challenges, including a lack of local industries and limited job opportunities.
However, through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, the community was able to transform its resources into new industries. The Council of Agriculture Biological Research and Conservation Center conducted a community resource survey, which led to the development of eco-tourism and environmental experiences. This, in turn, spawned new businesses, including B&Bs, restaurants, and conservation initiatives.
As a result, the Taomi community’s family income increased significantly, from several thousand NT dollars to over 500,000 NT dollars, making it the highest-earning community in the disaster area. Moreover, the emphasis on conservation has encouraged young people to return to their hometowns, contributing to the community’s revitalization.
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