Story of a very ordinary people's extraordinary resolve

Paddukuppam is a tsunami-ravaged village in Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu. Its residents are members of the fishing community.

Here, believe it or not, the affected people had themselves built the temporary but sturdy shelters, which can house 68 families. They were built in just 13 days. On January 7, affected people slept in their 'own' home once again. Thanks to the women of Paddukuppam.

This is a story of a very ordinary people's extraordinary resolve. It is not money that has worked here, but the rich experience gained from the earthquake in Gujarat (2001), the relief work carried out during the riots in Gujarat (2002) and people's power.

For more information read http://in.rediff.com/news/2005/jan/10tn.htm

- Murali