Jakarta, IO – The massive floods that hit Demak regency and its surroundings have given rise to speculation about the reappearance of the Muria Strait, which once separated Java and Muria Island. According to Adrin Tohari, the head of the National Research and Innovation Agency’s (BRIN) Geological Disaster Research Center, the phenomenon must be comprehensively researched to come to get a definite answer.
The flood in Demak was caused by many elements including extreme weather and land subsidence. However, there is still a need for in-depth identification of the characteristics of geological hazard sources so that disaster mitigation can be conducted effectively, per Detikcom, Thu (28/3).
“The issue needs to be seen from the context of the large flood disaster that occurred in the Demak coastal area due to extreme weather factors and also the contribution of land subsidence. For this reason, research related to aspects of extreme weather and land subsidence is very important to be carried out in the Demak coastal area,” explained Adrian.
Adrin explained that research on extreme weather and land subsidence in the Demak coastal area is the main step that must be taken to reduce the risk of disasters and understand the narrative of the Muria Strait. In the period from 2017-2019, a team from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) conducted research and found that the rate of land subsidence in Demak City reached 2.4-2.5 cm per year due to natural compaction processes and a decrease in groundwater levels.
BRIN’s Geological Disaster Research Center specializes in research of geological disasters, in particular earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes and ground movements. According to Adrin, utilizing research and innovation in the field of geological disasters can effectively reduce disaster risk mitigation.
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Through a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of geological hazard sources and the application of appropriate monitoring technology, the community can be better prepared to face the threat of natural disasters, including potential risks around the Muria Strait.
“Disaster mitigation requires comprehensive knowledge regarding the characteristics of geological hazard sources. Geological disaster research carried out must be able to produce scientific information regarding the characteristics of geological hazard sources and the vulnerability of an area to disasters,” said Adrin. (bp)