Writer : BSO Zephyrus HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB
Editor : Mely Anggrini
Translator : Aisyah Nurdiva Dewary Priatna
Wednesday, November 15th 2024
BANDUNG, meteo.itb.ac.id – The Zephyrus Semi-Autonomous Body (BSO) of HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB held a community service event in Majalaya District, Bandung Regency, on Saturday (October 5, 2024).
The event—titled “Ngaguar Banjir Majalaya X BSO Zephyrus HMME ‘Atmosphaira’ ITB” (or NBM x BSO Zephyrus)—focused on educating the community about flood disaster risk reduction in Majalaya. It was initiated by BSO Zephyrus HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB in collaboration with the Jaga Balai community and partners from the “Siaga Warga Majalaya” (Majalaya Citizen Alert) WhatsApp group.
Majalaya has long been known as an area frequently affected by flooding. Its geography and topography—specifically the fact that the Citarum River flows through the area—make it vulnerable to excessive water flow during the rainy season, creating a potential risk of floods.
In light of these conditions, BSO Zephyrus of HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB took concrete action by educating the public on the vulnerability of the Majalaya area and engaging the local community in flood disaster mitigation efforts. A primary objective of this initiative was to raise awareness among both the local residents and the association members regarding the importance of early warning systems and active participation in mitigation strategies.
Through this educational outreach and collaboration, BSO Zephyrus hopes that local residents and the members of HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB will become better prepared to address flood risks. Although the circumstances faced by the HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB members may differ from those of the local residents, the initiative provided an opportunity for them to learn from the local realities and challenges confronting the Majalaya community.
When the academic knowledge possessed by HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB members is combined with the community’s firsthand experience, it can enhance the effectiveness of strengthening prevention measures and rapid response capabilities in the event of a flood.
Sneak peek of the event
The NBM x BSO Zephyrus event began at 08:00 WIB, with participants gathering at the Majalaya Grand Mosque. They were divided into three groups to follow routes established during the initial briefing. Participants moved from post to post to observe locations affected by flooding.
One notable stop was Post 4 (PDAM – Cibangoak Intake), where participants were introduced to the Automatic Water Level Recorder (AWLR) and Rain Gauge developed by BSO Zephyrus. These instruments monitor water levels and rainfall—data crucial for predicting potential flood events.
In addition to learning about technical instruments, participants visited a flood-prone area at Post 2 (Atirompe), guided by facilitators Kang Tantan and Kang Sopi. There, they observed land-based water level measuring devices positioned at varying distances from the river. Participants also learned about local flood mitigation efforts, such as the construction of embankments to prevent water from entering homes.
The event concluded with a group discussion at Post 5 in Cikitu Village. Participants also engaged in games designed to foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills regarding flood issues and potential solutions.
The activity wrapped up with a joint reflection session involving both the organizers and the participants. Through this event, BSO Zephyrus HMME “Atmosphaira” ITB hopes to raise awareness about the importance of disaster mitigation, particularly in flood-prone areas like Majalaya.