Empowering local leaders in flood inundation mapping in Bagelen, Purworejo, Central Java

Abstract

This article discusses the reliability of flood inundation information that is obtained from participatory mapping. The commonly applied method to map flood inundation requires both direct and interpretive measurement data based on remote sensing images. Such assessments have limited availability of data; as a result, participatory mapping has become the solution. A number of studies have conducted participatory mapping to obtain flood hazard information in areas with limited sources of data, however, there has been little discussion about its reliability. This research conducted participatory flood inundation mapping by involving local leaders as respondents. The mental map drawn by the local leaders was digitised to obtain a shapefile format map. The information obtained from the semistructured interview was then included in the geographic information system (GIS) data as attributes. The obtained information was compared with the field data to determine its quality. A literature study was then conducted to discuss how the participatory mapping could support managing a disaster. Information obtained through participatory mapping can be effectively applied to disaster management because of its precise location information, lower cost and less time-consuming nature. The reliability of the information has weak accuracy of quantitative data; however, it has advantages in terms of qualitative data, especially in the detailed descriptions of flood information. In the future, participatory mapping should rely on integrating the perspectives of cross-disciplinary researchers, a comprehensive study of multidisciplinary knowledge and level of understanding of the stakeholders.

Mitigation Strategy of Disaster Based on Information Technology in Semarang City

“…Floods are the most frequent disasters in Indonesia and have an impact on many parties (Pratiwi, 2022). It is very important for policymakers to know the characteristics of flood hazards in order to choose mitigation measures in the future (Purwitaningsih et al, 2022). The rapid development of cities and changes in the characteristics of rain due to climate change cause flooding and inundation in rainy seasons (Sedyowati et al, 2020).…”

An overview of Volume 14, No 1 (2022)

“…It is clear that the benefits of community-centered research and practice are many, and the outcomes can be radical and transformative – as well as more grounded in local realities. Purwitaningsih et al ( 2022 ) explores the benefits and limitations of participatory flood inundation mapping, while Paripurno et al ( 2022 ) share beneficiary perspectives on the importance on community-driven livelihood recovery. Aksa and Afrian ( 2022 ) discuss the importance of ‘gotong royong’ (mutual cooperation) as social capital in coastal adaptation.…”