By: Fajar Nugraha
Disaster mitigation has become a priority agenda for the government in addressing the increasingly apparent impacts of climate change. The threats of flooding, land subsidence, and other hydrometeorological disasters require proactive measures that not only focus on emergency response but also strengthen infrastructure and community preparedness. An infrastructure-based approach has become a key strategy in building sustainable environmental resilience.
The increasingly extreme climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, especially in vulnerable areas such as coastal regions and densely populated urban areas. Therefore, disaster mitigation efforts can no longer be reactive but must be preventive and integrated. The development of resilient and environmentally friendly infrastructure is a tangible step to strengthen the region’s resistance to future disaster impacts.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Bima Arya Sugiarto, highlighted the importance of coordination between regional governments from upstream to downstream in preventing recurring floods. Synergy across regions is key to generating permanent solutions that can comprehensively reduce flood risks. Spatial planning based on disaster mitigation also becomes an important aspect that needs to be strengthened. The availability of green open spaces and water catchment areas plays a significant role in reducing flood risks and maintaining ecosystem balance.
Early warning systems for disasters are an essential element in strengthening mitigation. Bima emphasized that this system allows communities to take early preventive measures, thereby minimizing the impact of disasters. Providing communication tools, educating the public, and involving local communities are strategic steps to enhance community preparedness for disasters. The use of technologies such as risk map-based applications and water flow monitoring sensors can also help detect potential disasters more accurately.
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Pratikno, emphasized that the government focuses on evacuation and preparing safe shelter locations. In emergency situations, saving affected communities is the top priority. Meeting basic needs such as food, clean water, and healthcare services becomes a special concern, especially during Ramadan, when community needs increase. Psychosocial support for disaster victims is also crucial in assisting mental and social recovery for affected communities.
The recovery of settlements and infrastructure post-disaster is also a priority. Pratikno emphasized the importance of speeding up the reconstruction process for roads, bridges, and public facilities so that communities can resume normal activities. Ongoing weather modification operations are an innovative step to reduce rainfall and minimize the risk of subsequent floods. Furthermore, the application of sustainable development concepts, such as using environmentally friendly materials and adaptive infrastructure designs, should be encouraged so that recovery is not only physical but also strengthens environmental resilience to future disasters.
Active community participation in disaster mitigation is an element that cannot be overlooked. Empowering communities through disaster training, establishing disaster-resilient villages, and strengthening the capacity of local volunteers are strategic steps to strengthen community resilience. Education about the importance of protecting the environment, such as not littering and reducing excessive groundwater use, must continue to be promoted as part of community-based mitigation.
Collaboration between the government, communities, and the private sector is an important foundation for strengthening sustainable disaster mitigation. The involvement of the private sector in providing mitigation technologies, developing green infrastructure, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs makes a significant contribution to creating a more resilient environment. Technological innovations such as smart drainage systems and renewable energy-based waste management can be long-term solutions in reducing disaster risks.
Disaster mitigation also requires a data-driven approach and scientific studies. Research on climate change, disaster risks, and mitigation technologies must be continuously encouraged to strengthen evidence-based policies. Enhancing the capacity of research institutions and synergy with universities is an important step in providing accurate data and science-based solutions to face future disaster challenges.
The government’s efforts in prioritizing disaster mitigation deserve appreciation as a proactive response to increasingly complex environmental challenges. Through strong coordination, technological innovation, and community empowerment, infrastructure-based disaster mitigation becomes an essential foundation for building a more resilient and sustainable future. The success of these efforts depends not only on physical development but also on the synergy of all community elements in protecting the environment and improving disaster preparedness.
With a comprehensive and inclusive approach, disaster mitigation is not only the responsibility of the government but also involves all layers of society. A safer and more sustainable future can be realized through close cooperation, technological innovation, and collective awareness in facing climate change and disaster risks. Long-term commitment from all stakeholders will be the main pillar in creating a more resilient, adaptive society that is prepared to face future disaster challenges.
*) The author is the initiator of the Urban Community.
