Mitigasi Bencana Berbasis Kearifan Lokal dalam Pemanfaatan Pemandian Air Panas Sidebuk-Debuk di Kabupaten Karo (PT Pertamina)

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the implementation of local wisdom-based disaster mitigation in the utilization of the hot springs in Semangat Gunung Village, Karo Regency. The research approach used was descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, field observations, and documentation with the community, village officials, the Karo Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE), the primary stakeholders in the area. The research analysis refers to the disaster mitigation theory proposed by David Alexander (2002) and Ian Davis (1998), which emphasizes public awareness, infrastructure readiness, emergency response systems, risk monitoring, and cross-sector collaboration as strategic elements in building community resilience. The results indicate that disaster mitigation implementation in Semangat Gunung Village remains partial and highly dependent on external parties, particularly PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy. In terms of education and community awareness, the intensity of disaster awareness outreach and training is low, leading the community to rely more on traditional knowledge. Supporting facilities such as evacuation routes, warning signs, and assembly points are inadequate, resulting in numerous obstacles to the evacuation process. Emergency response and risk management systems have not yet been established at the village level, while risk monitoring is still conducted in a natural way without the support of technology or official risk maps. Although collaboration between agencies has been established. This study concludes that the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) concept in Semangat Gunung Village has not been optimally implemented. Strategic steps are needed, including strengthening disaster education, developing participatory mitigation infrastructure, establishing village preparedness teams, and strengthening cross-sector communication between the local government, PGE, and the community. Sustainable synergy is expected to strengthen local capacity to address the threat of volcanic and geothermal disasters in the region.