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The City of Lages Receives a Million-Dollar Investment for Protection and Prevention Works, with Actions Coordinated by the Civil Defense of SC
In a strategic action aimed at urban safety and resilient infrastructure, the municipality of Lages, in Santa Catarina, has been granted a million-dollar investment exceeding R$ 25 million for the execution of protection and prevention works this Tuesday (9).
The announcement was made during a visit by the secretary of Civil Defense of SC, Mário Hildebrandt, accompanied by mayor Carmen Zanotto. The package includes the replacement of 18 bridges, dredging, and structural reinforcement of the Carahá River, focusing on risk mitigation and environmental preservation.
Replacement of 18 Bridges Strengthens Protection and Prevention Works
The first phase of the project includes the replacement of 18 bridges in urban and rural communities of Lages, with an investment of R$ 6.5 million. The new bridge kits will be more resilient and safe, especially in risk situations such as floods and landslides. This measure aims not only to improve mobility but also to ensure the physical integrity of residents in vulnerable areas.
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According to Secretary Hildebrandt, these interventions demonstrate the commitment to the safety of the population. By replacing fragile bridges, the protection of communities is being expanded and safer structures are being guaranteed for the residents of Lages.
The choice of bridges to be replaced was made based on technical studies from the Civil Defense and the Municipal Planning Secretariat, prioritizing locations with a history of closures and structural risks.
Million-Dollar Investment in Infrastructure in Lages
Another central point of the plan is the set of interventions in the Carahá River, which traverses densely populated areas of the city. R$ 4 million will be invested in dredging the riverbed, an action that increases the water discharge capacity and significantly reduces the risk of flooding.
Furthermore, R$ 14.9 million will be allocated for riprap and the implementation of structural improvements along the riverbanks. These works aim to prevent erosion, protect slopes, and reinforce urban resilience against extreme weather events.
Mayor Carmen Zanotto highlighted the importance of the initiative: we addressed the need for cleaning the streams and protective interventions along Avenida Belisário Ramos (Carahá) and the riverbanks, aiming to enhance the safety of the population and progressively reduce the risk of flooding in the neighborhoods of Lages.
Civil Defense of SC Leads Prevention Actions in Lages
The Civil Defense of SC has played a fundamental role in providing technical and logistical support to the municipalities of Santa Catarina. In Lages, the entity’s actions were crucial during recent episodes of landslides and closures, such as the one that occurred on Avenida Juscelino Kubitschek. At that time, there was immediate recognition of the Partial Emergency Situation by the State Government, as well as technical support and referrals to the Federal Government.
The current package of works reinforces the state strategy to invest in preventive infrastructure, with a focus on environmental protection and sustainable development. The initiative directly addresses the guidelines of Governor Jorginho Mello, who has prioritized actions for urban resilience and strengthening community safety.
The Civil Defense is also involved in the preparation of executive projects and in oversight of the works, ensuring that resources are applied efficiently and transparently.
Urban and Environmental Benefits of Protection and Prevention Works
The protection and prevention works in Lages not only reduce immediate risks but also promote lasting benefits:
- Flood Reduction: dredging the Carahá River increases flow capacity and decreases the incidence of flooding during heavy rainfall.
- Environmental Preservation: riprap protects the riverbanks, preventing erosion and contributing to ecological stability.
- Traffic Safety: replacing bridges ensures safe mobility, especially in rural and peripheral areas.
- Urban Valuation: previously vulnerable areas gain adequate infrastructure, which can attract new investments and improve the quality of life.
Planning, Bidding, and Execution of Works in Lages
The projects are already in the bidding phase, with work expected to begin in the coming months. Execution will be coordinated by the Secretariat of Protection and Civil Defense of SC, in partnership with the city hall of Lages. The planning includes:
- Technical studies of feasibility and environmental impact
- Execution schedule in phases, prioritizing high-risk areas
- Continuous monitoring of the works and evaluation of results
Transparency and public oversight will be ensured through periodic reports and official communication channels.
Lages as a State Reference in Million-Dollar Investment for Prevention
With this million-dollar investment, Lages positions itself as a state reference in preventive actions and resilient infrastructure. The city demonstrates that it is possible to combine planning, environmental responsibility, and care for the population in an effective model of public management.
The initiative also serves as an example for other municipalities facing similar challenges, showing that joint action between state and municipal governments and specialized bodies can produce concrete and lasting results. Community engagement will also be essential for the success of the works.
Paths to a Safer and More Sustainable Future
The announcement made on September 9, 2025, marks a new chapter in the history of Lages, with the arrival of a million-dollar investment focused on safety, mobility, and sustainability. The protection and prevention works — coordinated by the Civil Defense of SC — include the replacement of 18 bridges, dredging, and structural reinforcement of the Carahá River, totaling over R$ 25 million in resources.
More than just infrastructure, these actions represent a commitment to life, the environment, and the future of the city. By investing in prevention, Lages strengthens its ability to face climate challenges and becomes an example of responsible and efficient management.
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