The potential threat of tsunamis, particularly from the increasingly active Mount Anak Krakatau, has become a pressing concern for coastal infrastructure projects in Indonesia. A recent study by Eduardo Meyrianso Simanjuntak, an independent researcher, published in ‘Jurnal Teknik Hidraulik’ (Journal of Hydraulic Engineering), sheds light on the historical impact of the 1883 Krakatau tsunami on coastal defenses, specifically the outer sea dikes of the National Capital Integrated Coastal Development (NCICD) Project in Jakarta Bay.
As urban development in coastal areas accelerates, understanding the forces that natural disasters can exert on infrastructure is critical. Simanjuntak’s research utilized time series data from the catastrophic 1883 event to evaluate how these forces could impact current and future construction projects. “The wave force generated by tsunamis can be devastating, and our findings indicate that the outer sea dikes will experience significant pressure,” Simanjuntak explained. The study reveals that the tsunami could strike with a force of at least 70 kN, a figure that underscores the urgent need for robust engineering solutions.
The research employed three different methods to calculate wave forces: the Rule of Thumb, Linear Theory, and the Sainflou method. The results varied significantly across these methodologies, highlighting a critical debate within the engineering community about best practices. For instance, the outer sea dike OSD-1A was estimated to withstand forces of 303.30 kN using traditional methods, while the Sainflou method suggested a more conservative 73.45 kN. In contrast, OSD-3A, which is expected to face the brunt of the tsunami, could endure forces ranging from 131.91 kN to an alarming 531.91 kN, depending on the method applied.
This disparity in estimates raises important questions for engineers and policymakers alike. “The Sainflou method may offer a more efficient design approach, but it’s essential to balance efficiency with safety,” Simanjuntak noted. This tension between innovative design and traditional safety measures is crucial as the construction sector grapples with the implications of climate change and natural disasters.
The findings from this study not only inform the design and reinforcement of coastal infrastructure but also have broader commercial implications. As cities like Jakarta strive to develop resilient urban environments, the construction industry must adapt to these scientific insights, ensuring that new projects can withstand the forces of nature. This research could pave the way for more advanced engineering practices, potentially leading to a shift in how coastal defenses are designed and implemented.
For those interested in the intricate relationship between natural forces and urban development, Simanjuntak’s work serves as a timely reminder of the challenges ahead. The study emphasizes the need for ongoing research and adaptation in the face of evolving environmental threats. For further insights from the author, you can visit lead_author_affiliation.