Aid in Action

Maps and GIS Support Ensure Effective Coordination of Relief Efforts

Yogyakarta | Tuesday, June 06, 2006

 

On Saturday morning, May 27, a powerful earthquake struck Yogyakarta and Central Java, killing more than 6,000, and leaving hundreds of thousands in need of long-term assistance. USAID dispatched personnel and resources immediately, coordinating the USG relief response with the Government of Indonesia (GOI), the Indonesian military, and a broad range of international and national NGOs. As relief efforts expanded, the need for detailed maps and Geographic Information System (GIS) support became evident.

USAID’s implementing partner, the Environmental Services Program (ESP) developed a series of Earthquake Quick Response Base maps and delivered over 60 sets and 100 CD-ROMs to relief providers. The series includes a base map at 1:100,000 scale for the entire region, as well as at 1:50,000 scale maps for the most affected districts. These maps provide detailed information on roads, administrative boundaries, and population density.

Quickly becoming the primary source used by the Government of Indonesia, international and domestic NGOs, as well as the U.S., relief providers are able to more effectively target delivery of relief services. The maps will be an important tool in the rehabilitation process, giving the GOI and donors a complete picture of the damage to more easily set priorities for infrastructure reconstruction.