Strengthening Community Participation in Spatial Planning of Riverflow Regions in Medan City

Abstract

Due to the impact of the flooding issues in Medan City, which are driven by the occurrence of sedimentation, narrowing, and law enforcement, it is required to offer alternate options for watershed management through a strategy to increase community involvement in spatial design. This study uses a qualitative, descriptive methodology. Techniques for gathering data include documentation, holding FGDs with seven stakeholders, and conducting in-depth interviews with riverside communities. According to the study's findings, Medan City's watershed management has not been carried out to its full potential through community participation. The situation gets worse as a result, as evidenced by the growth of riverbank communities, deteriorating water quality, poor health, and extensive floods. The primary issue that has to be fixed is the lack of communication between the community and the government. Low public knowledge and ineffective law enforcement in policing and securing river borders are barriers to community participation in spatial planning. This study suggests that pertinent organizations set up a watershed management coordination forum and educate and engage the local population in watershed management. This study offers a thorough understanding of how the quantity and quality of watersheds in Medan City are worsened by poor community participation.