Spatial Planning and Disaster Mitigation in Post-Tsunami Housing Complexes: A Case Study of Baitussalam District, Aceh Besar Regency

Abstract

Baitussalam District, Aceh Besar Regency is one of the areas affected by the 2004 Aceh earthquake and tsunami. After the rehabilitation and reconstruction process was completed, Baitussalam was inhabited again by residents. Many housing developers built new housing complexes in Baitussalam. This causes potential disasters that residents may face, especially if the development is not following the Spatial and Regional Plan. This research aims to determine the suitability of housing complexes plan in Baitussalam with the Aceh Besar Spatial and Regional Plan and the residents’ knowledge regarding spatial planning, tsunami mitigation and preparedness. This research used qualitative and quantitative methods, through interviews with related parties and residents of housing complexes. The results show the spatial layout of housing complexes in Baitussalam is in accordance with Aceh Besar Spatial and Regional Plan but lacks disaster mitigation facilities and infrastructure. Most respondents chose to reside in Baitussalam because housing prices were cheap and close to working place. They have a good understanding of tsunami disaster mitigation but do not know the implementation of tsunami preparedness in their neighborhood. Some respondents said Aceh Besar's spatial planning had considered the interests of community and wanted to be involved in managing and controlling its utilization.