Hualien Recovers from Earthquake While Remembering a Deadlier Past
Hualien, a vibrant city nestled on Taiwan's eastern coast, recently faced its biggest test in a quarter-century: a powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale. While the tremors left scars on buildings and lives, a sense of cautious relief permeates the city. Though devastating, this quake pales in comparison to the one that struck in 1999, which claimed over 2,400 lives.
Dodging a Deadlier Fate
Chen Hsiu-ying, a resident of Hualien, narrowly escaped tragedy as her apartment building tilted precariously after the quake. Witnessing the partial collapse sent shivers down her spine, but it was also a stark reminder of what could have been. "I live on the fifth floor, but now it's the second," she recounted, a tinge of gratitude laced with her shock. This sentiment resonated throughout Hualien. The earthquake undoubtedly inflicted damage, but did not unleash the horrific toll of its predecessor.
How Past Tragedy Forged a More Resilient Future
The contrast between the 1999 and 2018 earthquakes highlights the power of preparedness. Following the devastating losses of 1999, Taiwan embarked on a rigorous transformation. Building codes were strengthened and enforced with greater vigilance. Newer structures were built to withstand seismic activity, and existing ones received reinforcements. This commitment to earthquake safety paid dividends in 2018, limiting the lethality of the tremors.
Investing in Safety, Investing in Lives
The story of Stephanie Chang, a hotel owner in Hualien, exemplifies this dedication. Recognizing the threat posed by the fault line, she invested heavily in structural reinforcements for her decades-old building. This proactive stance ensured the safety of her guests and staff during the earthquake. While many hoteliers hesitate due to the financial burden, Chang's decision serves as a powerful testament to prioritizing safety over cost.
Shaken But Not Broken
Despite the damage, Hualien's spirit remains unbroken. Residents huddled in shelters, sharing stories of fear and resilience. Lu Quanxian, a woman rescued from her apartment, reflected on the fragility of life. "It seems today might be the end," she confided, highlighting the raw emotions sparked by the event. Yet, amidst the fear, a spirit of community shone through. Rescuers braved aftershocks to save trapped individuals, and neighbors offered support to those displaced.
Building Back Stronger
Hualien now faces the arduous task of reconstruction. However, the earthquake served as a potent reminder of the importance of preparedness. While stricter building codes played a crucial role in mitigating the disaster, authorities acknowledge that further improvements are needed. Many older structures remain vulnerable, highlighting the need for ongoing investment in retrofitting and stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
Learning from Taiwan's Resilience
Taiwan's experience offers valuable lessons for earthquake-prone regions worldwide. Investing in robust building codes, prioritizing safety in construction practices, and educating citizens about earthquake preparedness are crucial. As Chang, the hotel owner, poignantly noted, "You never know if your neighbor across the street has done the same thing." The 2018 earthquake in Hualien may have left scars, but it also served as a powerful reminder that building a culture of preparedness can save lives.
