Commemorating the third anniversary of the August 8, 2009 Typhoon Morakot, the Morakot Post-Disaster Reconstruction Council (MPDRC) of the Executive Yuan held a press conference this afternoon at National Taiwan University Hospital’s International Convention Center to report on the progress and achievements of reconstruction efforts thus far. The MPDRC also took the opportunity to convey its gratitude to local governments as well as private organizations and enterprises for their contributions.

Officials remarked that three years of reconstruction efforts have already yielded much fruit. The government has supplied 216.5 hectares of land, provided NT$6.9 billion (US$234 million) for infrastructure, simplified administrative procedures, and worked closely with charity groups to build permanent homes for displaced victims. The private sector, meanwhile, has contributed NT$8.6 billion (US$288 million) to the effort. To date, 3,439 permanent units have been constructed in 39 locations to benefit over 10,000 people.

Premier Sean Chen commented that as more permanent homes and sustainable communities are being completed, many of the new communities are now seeing higher tourist retention rates than prior to 2009. The focus should soon shift to building “soft infrastructure” such as cultural awareness and community spirit. More marketing campaigns should also be organized to drive tourism and boost sales of agricultural and specialty products so that future generations will want to stay in the communities, he added.

Since the Special Act for Post-Typhoon Morakot Disaster Reconstruction expires on August 29 this year, the government will extend the reconstruction programs by two years in accordance with Article 30 of the Act, said the premier. During that period, the Act will be applicable to unfinished projects to eliminate or simplify certain administrative procedures. The MPDRC will also remain operational to coordinate, review, promote and supervise the reconstruction program. A post-Morakot “glory and  vitalization project” is underway to follow up on earlier phases, integrate resources, create jobs and continue serving residents of the communities.

The premier further remarked that Typhoon Morakot sounded an alarm for Taiwan on the perils of extreme weather, and every citizen should be aware of the importance of taking precautions and being ready before disaster strikes. In the three short years since Morakot, Taiwan has seen many instances of record-breaking rainfall. As the impact of climate change intensifies, no one is immune from the threat of natural disasters, he added.

 “The perception that humans can triumph over nature must be changed,” Chen said, “we must restore our mountains, forests and land in a gradual manner that follows the principles of nature.” 

Chern Jenn-chuan, CEO of the MPDRC, said the government has and will continue to respect the will of the people in the construction of permanent homes. Now the Special Act for Post-Typhoon Morakot Disaster Reconstruction has been extended by two years, 3,500 more applications have been received as of the third anniversary of Morakot. It is evident that people are becoming increasingly aware of the challenges of the natural environment.

Chern added that to help residents adjust to their new homes, the government will realize the concept of a “colorful sustainable community” by investing in schools and religious facilities, constructing cultural heritage buildings, preserving the communities’ social structure and providing industrial and employment opportunities. This will give residents not only a physical house to live in, but a secure home where people can settle in and make a life for themselves.

The three-year anniversary of Typhoon Morakot marks not the end but a checkpoint on the road to recovery, the premier said, adding that determination, patience and compassion are needed to persist to the end of this long process of reconstruction. The government remains committed to helping typhoon victims and will carry on communicating, coordinating and working hard to achieve the goals. With love and charity, public and private organizations will continue to work in concert to build colorful sustainable communities in which people can live and work in peace with a lasting sense of security.
 

Premier Sean Chen (center) presides over an August 8 press conference commemorating the third anniversary of Typhoon Morakot. The premier is flanked by Executive Yuan Spokesman Hu Yu-wei (left) and Morakot Post-Disaster Reconstruction Council CEO Chern Jenn-chuan (right).

Premier Chen (center) takes questions from the media after an August 8 press conference commemorating the third anniversary of Typhoon Morakot.