Today, May the 12th, marks the two-year anniversary of the deadly Wenchuan Earthquake that rocked southwestern China's Sichuan Province.

The quake claimed nearly 70,000 lives and caused widespread damage. Direct economic losses exceeded 845 billion yuan. Relief and rescue operations were carried out immediately, winning China wide respect for its quick response and appropriate handling. But reconstruction proves to be a tough long-term challenge.

Two years on, resources from around the country continue to pour in to facilitate the local governments' efforts in rebuilding homes for survivors. Let's look at aerial footage comparing Sichuan in the immediate aftermath of the disaster to its current state.