Urbanization and management of hydrological risks in São Paulo

Abstract

The article discusses hydrological risks of the city of São Paulo as a historical and social construction deriving from an urbanization planning that disregarded the hydrological dynamics, did not provide space for vulnerable populations, favored mobility and urban expansion, and increased land value. It is supported by indirect sources (laws, theses, academic articles) and discusses the Municipal Civil Defense System in the light of current frameworks and entities responsible for managing risks of natural disasters. Risk management is treated as an emergency issue, subordinated to the Municipal Security Department. With a fragile structure that lacks basic elements, it disdains its historical and environmental liabilities and exposes the State’s withdrawal under the action of neoliberal policies.

São Paulo; urbanization; valley bottoms; urban planning; public policies