UNS — The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering (FT) Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, Dr.techn. Ir. Sholihin As’ad, M.T., explained the “Technological Development for Flood and Drainage Management for Urban Areas” in the Webinar of Flood and Inundation Control for Surakarta, Wednesday (2/3/2022).
Dr.techn. Sholihin explained that Surakarta has a flood issue because it is surrounded by ten rivers: Kali Pepe Hulu, Kali Sumber, Sungai Gajah Putih, Kali Premulung, Kali Brojo, Kali Jenes, Sungai Bengawan Solo, Kali Pepe Hilir, Kali Anyar, and Kali Boro. Surakarta is also located in a depression zone that makes it vulnerable to flooding. The Dean added that prevention actions were taken to construct floodgates, open green spaces, and retaining walls, representing Surakarta’s efforts in anticipating flooding and inundation.
“One of the efforts we could take to control flooding and inundation is implementing sustainable and environmentally friendly disaster mitigation, for example, understanding the natural phenomenon, conducting an environmental survey, adapting to the natural phenomenon, involving all stakeholders, carrying out in an integrated manner from upstream to downstream, inviting community participation, building a culture of environmental awareness, and building a culture of disaster response,” Dr.techn. Sholihin stated.
Dr.techn. Sholihin added that if flood and inundation occur in Surakarta, the first step to mitigate the phenomenon is to identify the issues comprehensively. “Then determine who are the stakeholders in flood and inundation mitigation. What technology should be selected? And to continue learning from the existing data. Therefore, flood and inundation could be handled well,” Dr.techn. Sholihin stated.
Flood and inundation issues in Surakarta could be handled collectively under a synergy among all parties, including the government and non-governmental organizations, through a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to avoid conflicts in its implementation. Humas UNS
Reporter: Lina Khoirun Nisa
Editor: Dwi Hastuti