Volcanic Springs, An Alternative Emergency Water Resource to Support Sustainable Disaster Management in Southern Flank of Merapi Volcano

Abstract

The activities of Merapi Volcano which still pose risks over time require good and sustainable disaster management. Identification of potential water resources that can be utilized in disaster emergency situations is needed to support the management of the disaster. For the southern slope of Merapi Volcano as an area directly affected by the eruption in 2010, the availability of water resources and infrastructure is a very important part to be ensured in the pre-disaster phase. This paper aims: (1) analyze the potential of springs, (2) analyze the spatial pattern of the distribution of springs with the distribution of population settlements, (3) design the use of springs for handling disaster emergencies; in disaster eruption prone area of the southern flank of Merapi Volcano. To achieve these objectives a field survey and secondary data collection were carried out through library research and document tracking. The data that has been obtained is then analyzed descriptively with a geographic approach supported by the application of geographic information system analysis. The results: (1) The area of southern flank of Merapi Volcano has many springs with varying quantity and quality, which generally can be used to meet water resource needs in disaster emergency situations. (2) the distribution of springs in disaster-prone areas is clustered according to geomorphological factors, while the distribution of settlements is random. The pattern of spreading of springs and settlements needs to be considered to determine the spring regulation system to meet the needs of the population, in addition to other considerations, namely population, population density, water needs per capita and administrative factors, (3) in this writing several wells have been chosen which can be used to fulfill needs in disaster emergency situations. In conclusion, the active volcanic area has a very good potential for springs which can be used to meet resource needs in disaster emergency situations. Management of existing potential well is very necessary in supporting sustainable disaster management.