Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia, Earthquake of 2009: Lifeline Performance

This introduction provides an overview of the earthquake that occurred around Padang, in the West Sumatra Province of Indonesia, on September 30, 2009, and its impact on lifeline systems. The magnitude and geographical effect of the earthquake is covered. Overviews are provided of the damage to specific lifeline systems, including power, communications, water, transportation, seaports and airports, gas and storage tanks, hospitals and schools, and emergency response.

Geology and geotechnical aspects of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake are presented. The seismic characteristics of the earthquake are described, along with an overview of the tectonic system affected and historic seismicity. The epicenter of the subduction zone is identified, and the increased vulnerability of the Mentawai fault is explained.

The effect of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake on transportation systems is described. An overview of system performance is followed by specific reports on five damaged bridges, including the Kurao Bridge; road damage in Padang; and landslides in the Pariaman region. Observations and recommendations are included.

The effect of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake on electric power systems is described. An overview of system performance is followed by specific reports on distribution and transmission systems, backup power generation, and fire following the earthquake. Observations and recommendations are included.

The effect of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake on the water system is described. Damage to the water system in each of three regions (northern, central, and southern) is presented, followed by a report on system performance. Emergency response, especially following severe damage to the water department building, is described. Observations and recommendations are included.

The effect of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake on telecommunication systems is described. An overview of system performance is followed by specific reports on the wireless system, including cellular base stations, antenna towers, backup power, and temporary base stations. The telecommunication central office and main switching station were damaged. The transmission and distribution system, however, sustained minimal damage. Observations and recommendations are included.

The effect of the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake on seaports and airports is described. An overview of these ports is followed by specific observations on Teluk Bayur Port and Minangkaban International Airport.

The response of emergency preparedness organizations following the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake is described. Indonesia's program for disaster response is led by the Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (National Agency for Disaster Management); efforts in Padang are coordinated by the Disaster Management Center. The goals and response of the Disaster Management Center are reported, along with recommendations. The Tsunami and Disaster Mitigation Research Center of Syiah Kuala University studies disaster risk reduction to improve community resilience. A volunteer group of structural engineering professors and students evaluated the status of residential buildings immediately after the earthquake. The Komunitas Siaga Tsunami (KOGAMI) provides disaster preparedness training and education in the Padang area.

An investigative group undertook a follow-up investigation initiated one year after the 2009 Padang, Indonesia, earthquake. The investigation assessed improvements and progress in recovery following a major earthquake. Follow-up reports are included for various lifeline systems, including emergency response, water, telecommunications, and schools and shelters, as well as efforts to rebuild community buildings and public spaces.