NAGAPATTINAM, INDIA - DECEMBER 24: Kodaimari, 63, a survivor of the Boxing Day tsunami uses a neem twig to brush his teeth on a breakwater built to protect the fishing hamlet of Akkaraipettai on December 24, 2024 in Nagapattinam, India. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami had a devastating impact on India, resulting in the loss of over 10,000 lives and affecting thousands more, with significant damage to infrastructure and livelihoods, particularly in coastal regions like Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The recovery efforts along the Indian coastline affected by the 2004 tsunami focused on rebuilding infrastructure and providing financial assistance to affected communities, with significant progress made in restoring homes and livelihoods, particularly in regions like Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Many of these areas have largely recovered, with improved disaster management systems in place to mitigate future risks, although some communities continue to face challenges related to environmental degradation and economic stability. (Photo by Abhishek Chinnappa/Getty Images)