Rehabilitation Strengthening of Riverbanks, Embankments, and Retaining Walls in the Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the condition of riverbanks, embankments, and retaining walls in Tanjung Pura District, Langkat Regency, as well as to identify the factors causing their damage, the impacts on flood risk and community livelihoods, and effective rehabilitation strategies. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. The findings indicate that damage to water-retaining infrastructure is caused by a combination of natural factors such as erosion, high rainfall, and unstable soil types and human factors, including land expansion, residential development, and lack of maintenance. This damage has increased flood risk, material losses, disruption of economic activities, and environmental degradation. Effective rehabilitation strategies include strengthening physical structures (retaining walls, sheet piles, gabions), improving hydrological management, implementing vegetation conservation, conducting regular maintenance, and promoting community participation. The implementation of these strategies is expected to stabilize riverbanks, embankments, and retaining walls, thereby enhancing the area’s resilience against flooding and erosion.