Jakarta flooding: systems study of socio-technical forces

Abstract

This paper uses tools from systems thinking to address flood problems from multiple perspectives with a case study of flooding in Jakarta, Indonesia, which faces a daunting challenge due to its topography, climate, congested areas and inadequate infrastructure. While it cannot solve flood problems with structural measures alone, Jakarta can incorporate risk management into development strategies and policies, implement an effective early warning system and integrated emergency response programme as well as improve law enforcement; it can also work to develop a culture of resilience through collective strategies, greater public awareness and a flood management information system.

Keywords:

• urban flooding
• developing countries
• integrated flood management
• socio-technical approach
• systems analysis tools