OCCUPATION OF THE SLOPES AND THE GENERATION OF RISK AREAS OF MASS MOVEMENTS IN BLUMENAU CITY-SC

Abstract

doi: 10.12957/geouerj.2016.16695

This research presents a discussion of the development of risk areas to mass movements in the city of Blumenau - SC. Discusses the urban space occupation process as a conditioning factor the formation of risk areas due to occupation of steep slopes. Blumenau registers a model of occupation that forms from the advance on valley bottom areas, with parallel plots each other where each land has a narrow portion with access to drainage and its length extends toward upstream. This process, which differs from other areas of Luso-Brazilian colonization, resulting in a linear urban area following the drainage network with few lines connecting them. This model of occupation was seeking to adapt to the limitations imposed by topography, due to shortage of flat areas, and predominance of deep valleys with embedded rivers, indicating strong control of the geological structure. After the 1930s the occupation advances to the hillside, assuming a more urban character and the industrialization which was consolidated as the main regional activity. The limitation imposed by means brings about an urban space marked by the presence of excessively steep cut and fill slope that induce the occurrence of accidents such as occurred in 2008 and 2011. The makeshift occupation of hillsides, often in irregular areas beyond the municipal urban area, is the biggest challenge for the municipal urban planning in this new century.