H. Utomo, A.L.P. Kusumo
The implementation of risk management is critical to ensure the safe and reliable operation of dams under increasing hydrometeorological and geological pressures. This paper presents a conceptual framework for applying risk management to dam operation and maintenance through an integrated data information system, comprehensive risk mapping, and structured mitigation planning. The proposed system combines environmental, structural, meteorological, and seismic monitoring in real time and consolidates these data in a cloud-based monitoring center. Risk is analysed as a function of hazard, vulnerability, and capacity, and translated into spatial risk maps for critical dam components, including headwaters, reservoir pools, dam structures, spillways, and downstream reaches. These maps are then used to design protection, prevention, preparedness, and community-based empowerment measures, as well as to support the periodic review of emergency action plans. Although the paper is conceptual, it is grounded in practical experience from dam projects in Indonesia. It demonstrates how integrated monitoring and risk management can strengthen disaster mitigation and decision-making for dam stakeholders. © 2026 Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.
Water Resources Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia; Public Works Polytechnic, Semarang, Indonesia; ADB International Consultant, Manila, Philippines
