Water sensitive urban design approach for flood prone area (Study case: Kauman Riverfront Area, Semarang)

Abstract

Kauman Semarang Riverfront Area is the center of the trade and services area in Semarang, especially for traditional trade. This area is located between three ethnic villages and is adjacent to Kali Semarang, a river that has an important meaning and historical value for the city’s development. Kauman Area is located in Central Semarang District, Semarang City, and is within a 1 km radius of the Semarang Old Town, a tourist attraction in the cultural heritage field, which is known as the priority of socio-cultural development on the city and province scale. However, with this type of potential, Kauman Riverfront Area has a medium-high flooding threat. In 2021, the number of flood incidents was the highest within five years (88 incidents). This study aims to examine the WSUD approach for the study area that focuses on the urban water system to decrease flooding risk and its correlation with urban design elements. The chosen method for this research is a fragmental method that consists of four steps, which begin with collecting data until producing the WSUD component approach, which is likely to be implied. The results show that the WSUD components and water system for Kauman Riverfront Area to increase the stormwater infiltration and storage.