Vulnerability of Communities in Drought-Prone Areas during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Semarang City

Abstract

Covid-19 pandemic still becomes a primary problem that influences many aspects. Some of the government efforts to reduce the spread of this virus are by continuing to urge people to comply with health protocols, one of which is by washing their hands after doing activities. This has implications for the water demand that rises and becomes an essential issues for drought-prone areas, especially when entering the dry season. Therefore, this study aims to examine the vulnerability of communities in drought-prone areas due to the increased demand for clean water during the pandemic. This research used a quantitative method by comparing water demand with the ability of water supply from the government and the community. The study uses secondary data from government agencies. The results of this study are to determine the vulnerability of drought-prone areas by dividing them into three zones, namely low, medium, and high. In addition, the results of this study are expected to provide recommendations to the government regarding the provision of clean water for the community during a pandemic. This is important because the efforts of the Semarang City government to overcome drought have tended to be reactive and unsustainable.