Post-Tsunami
Aceh:
Cultural
Considerations in
Disaster
Mitigation
Location
Banda Aceh, Indonesia
Year
2014
Status
Academic Research Project
Background Study
26th Dec 2004, a 9.2-magnitude earthquake struck in the Indian Ocean, generating a tsunami that wiped clean half the city of Banda Aceh.
The Issue
In 2012, an earthquake triggered a tsunami warning and highlighted an inadequate evacuation strategy in the city.
Cultural Significance
Islam is the predominant religion in Aceh, with strong influences to cultural significance and daily activities.
In 2012, many evacuees escaped to mosques due to previous incidents where mosque structures remained standing amidst the 2004 tsunami destruction.
Site
Tsunami “Ground Zero” situated along the coast. Here, evacuation buildings are not utilized and new housing are abandoned.
In 2012, evacuees headed inland, which created traffic jams in the city.
Concept
“Reclaiming the Land”
The local government implemented a 2.7KM buffer zone. This proposal reclaims land and livelihood, as well as addresses safety issues and evacuation procedures.
Elevated Highway as
1st wave breaker
Permeable skin of bamboo cladding along the highway to break up the force of water and trap incoming and outgoing floating debris.
Urban Park as
2nd wave breaker
Introduce a softer buffer zone along the coast that functions as play and green area for the residents and visitors to the fishing villages.
Image shows post-tsunami scenario
Green Hills as
3rd and final wave breaker
Two configurated rows of staggered hills at different heights.
Image shows mosque in Stand-By Mode
Mosque and Community Spaces as Evacuation Buildings
Reciprocity –
Encouraging the use of everyday familiar buildings as evacuation points creates better orientation for evacuees following a disaster.
Image shows mosque in Evacuation Mode
