But in other cases, it has led to the construction of so-called ghost cities: neighborhoods devoid of tenants or employers.

WSJ: China Pins Hopes on Public Housing

Back in Indonesia, some of the housing built for survivors remains empty due to poor construction that in some cases does not include drinking water or protect against the torrential rains.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

In a few cases, farming has begun on small portions and we are already seeing rivers being diverted through the construction of canals.

UNESCO: Madiodio Niasse on the risks associated with large-scale foreign land aquisitions | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization