Are nature-based flood-plains a practical fix for Jakarta’s drainage?

Question

Accepted Answer

Nature-Based Solutions as a Potential Strategy for Jakarta's Flood Management

Many cities are exploring nature-based solutions as a strategy for managing urban flooding, which includes transforming existing concrete drainage and grey infrastructure into floodplains. Jakarta's authorities are advised to dredge and clean its rivers and waterways, while also facilitating community access to water resources without resorting to excessive, uncontrolled groundwater extraction. This approach is being highlighted as a way to defend nature and mitigate future flood-related disruptions in the Indonesian capital.
The Concept of Nature-Based Solutions

Nature-based solutions involve utilising natural processes and ecosystems to address societal challenges, such as climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. In the context of urban flood management, this can entail restoring or creating natural features like wetlands, green roofs, and permeable surfaces, or re-establishing floodplains along urban rivers. The aim is to enhance the natural capacity of the environment to absorb, store, and convey water, thereby reducing the risk of flooding in built-up areas.
Jakarta's Current Drainage Challenges

Jakarta faces significant challenges due to its geographical location and urban development. Situated on a swampy plain with a substantial portion below sea level and crisscrossed by over 10 rivers, the city's natural water management systems have been compromised. Decades of rapid urbanisation have led to the conversion of water catchment areas and surrounding forests for residential and agricultural purposes. Furthermore, river capacity has diminished due to sedimentation, poor waste management, and illegal settlements, leading to frequent blockages during heavy rainfall. The extensive reliance on groundwater extraction for water supply exacerbates the problem, causing the city to sink by an estimated 5-10 cm annually, further increasing its vulnerability to flooding and rising sea levels.
The Need for Comprehensive Flood Management Plans

Green groups and experts have stressed the importance of consistent, long-term planning for flood management in Jakarta. While Indonesia possesses the resources to address these issues, a lack of consistent political leadership in implementing sustainable plans has been a recurring problem. The city's vulnerability is compounded by the fact that it cannot solve its flooding issues in isolation. Collaboration with surrounding towns and regions is deemed crucial for aligning long-term plans and effectively addressing the widespread impact of climate change and extreme weather events.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Are nature-based flood-plains a practical fix for Jakarta’s drainage?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends