Resilient Economies Strategies for Sinking Cities and Flood Risks 2025
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CASE STUDY 1
Submerged neighbourhood: compounding impacts of
subsidence and sea-level rise, Muara Baru, Jakarta, Indonesia
Localized areas of Muara Baru, a low-lying area in northern
Jakarta, has been reported to experience subsidence rates of
60mm per year. When combined with sea-level rise, this area
has experienced frequent and worsening floods, especially
during high tides. Notably, landmarks such as the Waladuna
Mosque have submerged over recent decades. Since 2009,
rising water levels have rendered parts of neighbourhoods
unusable, forcing businesses and residents to relocate.
The challenges have been associated with subsidence, sea-
level rise and inadequate water management. The situation
in Muara Baru highlights the urgent need for comprehensive resilience strategies to protect communities and local
economies from the escalating risks associated with
subsidence and the broader climate crisis.
Sources: Bott et al. (2021). Land subsidence in Jakarta and Semarang
Bay – The relationship between physical processes, risk perception,
and household adaptation. Ocean & Coastal Management, vol. 211,
no.105775. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105775;
Kompas. (2022, 28 November). Menengok Masjid Wal Adhuna, saksi
bisu tenggelamnya pesisir Jakarta. https://megapolitan.kompas.com/
read/2022/11/28/18415841/menengok-masjid-wal-adhuna-saksi-bisu-
tenggelamnya-pesisir-jakarta?page=1.Subsidence generates both direct and indirect
impacts. Direct losses encompass damage to
critical infrastructure, such as roads, buildings,
railways, ports and utilities, resulting in increased
maintenance expenditures and declining property
values.17,18 These vulnerabilities risk being
exacerbated by ageing infrastructure, much of
which was designed for past conditions, and
may now be inadequate to withstand current
and future climate-related and other shocks.
Land loss from subsidence constrains housing
availability, economic development and agricultural
productivity. Additionally, as coastal land sinks and
sea levels rise, saltwater intrusion into freshwater
resources intensifies, threatening water security for
households, industry and agriculture alike.19,20,21
Subsidence alone can increase flood risks, and when
combined with rising sea levels and more frequent
extreme weather events, the likelihood of flooding
and infrastructure failures is significantly amplified.
These impacts can strain emergency response
systems, disrupt public services and supply chains,
and undermine local economies and livelihoods.The true burden of land subsidence is likely
underestimated, as cascading social, health,
environmental and economic interdependencies,
particularly in the context of the climate crisis,
are not yet fully captured. Impacts are likely to
be most severe in cities with limited monitoring
capabilities and resources to fully assess the
issues, carry out risk assessments and implement
response measures.
Social and health implications
The social and health ramifications of land
subsidence are equally significant, as sinking
amplifies vulnerability to flooding and acts as a
risk multiplier when combined with sea-level rise
or extreme weather.22,23 In severe cases, flooding
can displace residents and businesses, disrupt
livelihoods and limit access to essential services.
Large-scale displacement places additional
pressure on governments and local economies,
with marginalized communities often lacking
resources for adaptation and relocation.24
The Waladuna Mosque submerged in water due
to tidal flooding: Muara Baru, Jakarta, Indonesia
Resilient Economies: Strategies for Sinking Cities and Flood Risks
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