A 20-year journey of enhancing community preparedness and mitigation systems after the Indian Ocean tsunami in Aceh, Indonesia

Abstract This paper examines the evolution of community preparedness and mitigation systems in Aceh, Indonesia, over the past two decades since the catastrophic Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of the progress in disaster preparedness and explores the complex interplay between land use changes and disaster resilience. This exploration is particularly focused on the impacts of rapid population growth and urban development in tsunami-prone coastal areas. The study synthesizes insights from a variety of literature on post-tsunami developments in Aceh and includes direct interviews with survivors to enrich the analysis. The paper investigates ongoing efforts to anticipate and mitigate future tsunami threats, considering Aceh’s unique cultural and habitual dynamics. It highlights the significant strides made in enhancing community preparedness and identifies the challenges faced in strengthening disaster resilience. Key areas of focus include initiatives to improve community readiness, the development of evacuation facilities, and the implementation of additional mitigation measures such as coastal forest restoration. Furthermore, the paper addresses critical issues for future resilience, such as managing the effects of population growth and urbanization in vulnerable coastal regions. Through a detailed analysis, the paper illuminates both the progress achieved and the obstacles encountered in the continuous journey toward bolstering disaster resilience. The insights derived from this study offer a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in disaster preparedness and provide valuable lessons for other disaster-prone regions worldwide. By examining these aspects, the study contributes to ongoing efforts to safeguard communities and adapt to evolving disaster risks.