Author(s)

A.Betamio de Almeida

Abstract

New large dams projects are under the public fears and the critics from environmental groups; old dams and densely populated valleys are a growing threat. Environment, safety and public opinion about dams are now a major factor of decision and pressure all over the world: the open society and the media power have changed the decision-making methodologies. Benefits from technological progress are now less obvious and seems to be more risky for the common citizen. One of the concerns about dams is its safety and the possibility of serious accidents including the dam failure. This concern is particularly important for people living along the valley downstream the dam. In order to develop an integrated and advanced methodology to solve problems related to valley risk management and dam safety, the "Laboratorio Nacional de Engenharia Civ

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