FLOOD ISSUES AND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS FOR FLOOD MITIGATION IN MEDAN CITY

Abstract

The development of Medan City has grown very rapidly. However, the rapid urban growth has not been balanced by adequate infrastructure development to support flood management. When heavy rain hits Medan City, the overflow of rainwater from residential areas and roads cannot be drained smoothly, resulting in stagnant water. Inadequate infrastructure is one of the main causes of flooding in Medan City. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach to investigate the implementation of infrastructure development programs for flood mitigation in Medan City, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, field observations, and document analysis. Results indicate that the implementation of infrastructure development in flood management in Medan City is relatively effective. This is evidenced by the construction of urban drainage channels at 8 drainage locations, totaling 4,905 meters; the improvement of Urban Drainage Channels at 26 locations, covering 17,173 meters; and the provision of Urban Drainage System facilities including retention ponds, floating pump machines, and embankments. While an 84 percent achievement rate reflects meaningful progress, persistent challenges in institutional coordination and community engagement indicate the need for continued improvement toward sustainable urban flood management.