Abstract
Implication of a dam construction project on human settlements has been a matter of dispute, for such a project usually involves involuntary resettlement of residents. However, in terms of EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment), no established methodology exists to properly deal with human settlements. It is therefore urged to evaluate the performance of existing EIA methods, so that more sophisticated methodologies could be developed. This study deal with the construction project of the Saguling Dam, in Java island, Indonesia. Despite the fact that the EIA for the project was conducted in late 1970's to early 1980's, when the EIA methodology itself was still in its early stage of development, the EIA method applied was very well designed. This study took steps of (i) compare what the EIA report predicted with what actually happened, (ii) find out reasons behind the discrepancies observed, and (iii) elaborate recommendations to improve the methodology. The study reviewed the EIA methodologies applied from the view point of improving their capabilities to deal with human settlements. Following aspects were not properly dealt with in the EIA: (i) collapse of community, (ii) lack of proper information, (iii) distrust among residents, (iv) employment by the construction project, and (v) compensation for resettles. Recommendations are made for refinement of the methodology to better deal with these aspects.
