Heavy flooding has engulfed several areas in Semarang, Central Java, at the beginning of the new year, following continuous and intense rainfall since Saturday (December 31). Seven districts, including Genuk, Pedurungan, Gayamsari, Semarang Utara, Semarang Barat, Ngaliyan, and Tugu, are still affected by the floods, with residential areas submerged and daily life disrupted.
According to the head of the Semarang City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), A Rudianto, the flooding persists in the mentioned districts due to the frequent occurrence of rainfall. Although some areas have experienced receding water levels, there are still pockets of high flooding as rain continues to fall.
In the Ngaliyan and Tugu areas, a joint effort by the military, police, search and rescue agency (Basarnas), and residents has been made to construct temporary embankments to repair the breached embankment in the Plumbon River Basin. The breached embankment is believed to be the cause of the flooding in Mangkang Kulon and Mangunharjo sub-districts. Since the onset of the floods, the authorities have prioritized the rescue of affected residents, as the floodwaters reached a height of over 1 meter.
Colonel Inf Honi Havana, the commander of Semarang City's military district (Dandim 0733), stated that joint efforts are being carried out to repair the breached embankment in the Plumbon River Basin. The focus is on constructing temporary embankments to address the issue. Furthermore, the flooding has also caused delays in train schedules, with Tawang and Poncol stations being submerged, resulting in delays of more than 2 hours.
This news item is sourced from CNN Indonesia, a reputable news platform. The article provides information on the ongoing flooding situation in Semarang, including statements from the head of the Semarang City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and the commander of Semarang City's military district (Dandim 0733).
The recurring floods in Semarang City highlight the vulnerability of urban areas to extreme weather events and the importance of comprehensive urban planning and infrastructure development. It is crucial for local authorities to assess the effectiveness of drainage systems, embankments, and flood prevention measures to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters.
Climate change and urbanization contribute to the increased risk of flooding, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address these issues. Implementing sustainable urban development practices, such as green infrastructure and improved water management, can enhance the city's resilience to future flood events.
Furthermore, community engagement and public awareness are essential in promoting preparedness and response to flooding. Education campaigns on flood safety measures, early warning systems, and evacuation procedures can empower residents to take necessary actions during emergencies, potentially reducing the loss of life and property.
In conclusion, the recent severe flooding in Semarang calls for immediate action to improve urban infrastructure, enhance disaster preparedness, and implement sustainable practices. By prioritizing these measures, the city can mitigate the impact of future flood events and safeguard the well-being of its residents.
