Can you give an example of successful community resilience to earthquakes?

Yes, the city of Kobe in Japan demonstrated successful community resilience following the 1995 earthquake.

The Great Hanshin earthquake, also known as the Kobe earthquake, struck Japan on 17th January 1995. It was one of the most devastating earthquakes in the country's history, causing extensive damage and loss of life. However, the city of Kobe demonstrated remarkable resilience in the aftermath of the disaster.

The earthquake, which measured 7.3 on the Richter scale, resulted in the death of over 6,000 people and left more than 300,000 homeless. Infrastructure was severely damaged, with roads, bridges, and buildings destroyed. Despite the scale of the disaster, the community's response was swift and effective. Within a week, emergency shelters were established, and within a month, temporary housing was provided for those who had lost their homes.

The city's recovery was facilitated by a combination of government support, community involvement, and international aid. The Japanese government allocated significant funds for reconstruction, while local communities organised volunteer groups to assist with clean-up and rebuilding efforts. International aid also played a crucial role, with countries around the world offering financial assistance and sending relief supplies.

One of the key factors in Kobe's resilience was the emphasis on learning from the disaster. The city used the experience to improve its disaster management strategies, investing in earthquake-resistant infrastructure and implementing stricter building codes. Public education programmes were also introduced to ensure residents were better prepared for future earthquakes.

Furthermore, the city focused on not just physical reconstruction, but also social recovery. Efforts were made to rebuild communities, not just buildings, with a focus on maintaining social networks and supporting the psychological well-being of residents. This holistic approach to recovery has been credited with helping Kobe bounce back from the disaster more quickly and effectively.

In conclusion, Kobe's response to the 1995 earthquake is a prime example of community resilience. Despite the scale of the disaster, the city was able to recover and rebuild, demonstrating the power of community involvement, government support, and learning from past experiences.