A year ago Karim Sokhn somehow managed to hold his camera steady to capture the devastating explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital killing at least 218 people and injuring 7,000.

Sokhn returned yesterday (August 1) to the neighbourhoods close to the blast site in the port to see what, if any, progress has been made one year since the tragedy.

The economic crisis and political dysfunction that followed the explosion mean that the families of the victims are still fighting for answers and many buildings remain in ruins.

"In a couple of days, thousands of Lebanese...tens of thousands will gather here to commemorate this terrible event that took place and to stand with the families of the victims," sighs Sokhn as he stands with his back to the still ruined port area.

Sokhn then turns his camera on some of the many gutted office buildings and other businesses that remain as they were after the powerful explosion.

Later, he wanders through a nearby neighbourhood where destroyed cars lie in the street amid collapsed buildings.

"They're still waiting to be compensated for the damages that took place," says Sokhn.

Beirut, Lebanon aftermath of the explosion 1 year later