In a significant advancement for construction safety and environmental management, a recent study published in ‘Jurnal Teknik Hidraulik’ has put forth innovative solutions to mitigate landslide risks in the Hambalang Complex, located in Bogor, West Java. The Pusat Pendidikan Pelatihan dan Sekolah Olah Raga Nasional (P3SON) construction project, which spans 32 hectares on the steep slopes of Gunung Hambalang, poses unique challenges due to its geological makeup.
Lead author Rokhmat Hidayat has meticulously detailed the project’s geological concerns, which include a thick clay layer that becomes impermeable when saturated, increasing the likelihood of landslides during heavy rainfall events. Hidayat stated, “The unique morphology of the Hambalang area, combined with its geological characteristics, necessitates a robust drainage solution to ensure the safety and longevity of the construction.”
The proposed solution involves the installation of an outer subsurface drainage system on the eastern side of the site, complemented by a horizontal subsurface drainage system throughout the project area. The design includes twin iron pipes with diameters ranging from 20 to 35 cm, strategically placed 5 meters below the surface. Additionally, horizontal drainage pipes, designed with a diameter of 10 cm, will be installed at 3 to 5 meters depth, spaced 8 meters apart, with lengths of 15 to 20 meters and a slope of 10 degrees.
This proactive approach not only aims to reduce the risk of landslides but also ensures the stability of the structures being erected in this challenging environment. The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate project. By addressing the complex interplay of precipitation, infiltration, and soil composition, the findings could set a new standard for drainage systems in similar topographies across Indonesia and beyond.
The construction sector stands to benefit significantly from such studies, as they highlight the importance of integrating geotechnical assessments into project planning. “Incorporating advanced drainage solutions can save costs associated with construction delays and potential damages from landslides,” Hidayat noted, emphasizing the commercial viability of investing in such technologies.
As the industry continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, which exacerbate rainfall patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the methodologies discussed in this research could pave the way for more resilient infrastructure. The insights gained from the Hambalang project may inspire further innovations in subsurface drainage systems, ultimately enhancing safety and sustainability in construction practices.
For more information on Rokhmat Hidayat’s work, you can visit lead_author_affiliation. This research underlines the critical intersection of science and construction, showcasing how informed engineering decisions can lead to safer, more resilient communities.
