Disaster Mitigation Policy in Coastal Areas ( Case Study : Managing Tidal Floods in Tanjung Pinang City’s Coastal Region)

Abstract

Indonesia is one of the countries most vulnerable to natural disasters, ranking second globally in the World Risk Report (Ilona & Radtke, 2023). Among these, coastal areas face increasing risks from tidal floods (rob), which regularly affect settlements and economic activities. This study focuses on the mitigation policies for handling tidal floods in Tanjungpinang City, the capital of Riau Islands Province, where nearly all regions are coastal and prone to flooding. Using a qualitative, descriptive–exploratory approach, this research analyzes government planning documents, spatial risk maps, and institutional responses led by the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD). The results show that although tidal floods are not the most frequent disaster between 2014–2023, their recent recurrence in 2024—submerging 16 areas—demands serious mitigation actions. Risk mapping identifies the most vulnerable zones in Bukit Bestari, Dompak, and Tanjung Unggat Villages, characterized by lowland topography. Budget analysis of the 2018–2023 Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) indicates continuous allocations for flood control and disaster preparedness programs. However, BPBD’s early warning systems and public awareness initiatives remain limited, relying mainly on information dissemination via BMKG channels. Strengthening community-based preparedness, early warning infrastructure, and education campaigns is crucial to build long-term resilience. Overall, effective mitigation in Tanjungpinang requires an integrated approach involving government, local institutions, and communities to reduce vulnerability and enhance adaptive capacity in facing tidal flood threats.