Empowerment of Communities Affected by the Pangkalan Susu Coal Power Plant through Paralegal Training

Abstract

This research explores the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the Pangkalan Susu coal-fired power plant (PLTU) on the community in Tanjung Pasir Village, Pangkalan Susu District, Langkat Regency. Based on a qualitative method with a participatory action research (PAR) approach, the author collected data through focus group discussions (FGDs), interviews, and observations. The results showed that the presence of the coal-fired power plant had reduced the quality of life of the local community, increased unemployment, caused a decrease in the income of fishermen and farmers, and triggered various health problems due to fly ash and bottom ash (FABA). To address these conditions, the author implemented a paralegal training program to empower communities to understand and protect their rights. The training proved effective in improving the community's understanding of their legal rights and ability to use existing legal mechanisms. This program is expected to become a model intervention that strengthens the community's capacity to deal with the negative impacts of industrial activities.