The Genoa municipal council has taken significant steps to address hydrogeological risks in the region, particularly in the areas of via Costa D’Erca in Val Cerusa, Voltri, and via Terpi in Val Bisagno. In a recent meeting, the council approved a technical and economic feasibility project aimed at mitigating these risks, which has a budget of 740,000 euros.
Ferdinando De Fornari, the council's public works assessor, detailed the plans, stating, "An intervention will be carried out to stabilize a landslide near civic number 16." This landslide, which has raised concerns among residents and local businesses, occurred after intense and prolonged meteorological events in November 2019.
De Fornari emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that numerous inspections confirmed the need for safety measures. The area has seen widespread deterioration of the soil, which has been exacerbated by previous heavy rainfall. The technicians from the municipality's hydrogeology, geotechnics, and valleys department highlighted the necessity of immediate action to secure the affected land on via Costa D’Erca, a crucial route for local residents and the numerous agricultural activities in the vicinity.
In addition to the work planned for Val Cerusa, the council also approved urgent restoration and safety measures for the slope between via Terpi and piazzale Bligny in Val Bisagno. This decision came in response to a landslide that occurred on February 12, 2025, following intense precipitation. The budget allocated for this safety intervention is 122,000 euros.
Alessio Bevilacqua, the councillor delegated to the valleys, reiterated the importance of these interventions. He stated, "The inspections carried out by the municipality's technicians have revealed widespread soil deterioration, necessitating urgent repair work to stabilize the affected land on via Costa d’Erca." This area serves as a vital link for residents and supports various agricultural and horticultural activities.
The council's proactive approach reflects a growing recognition of the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events. The measures being implemented are not just about immediate fixes but are part of a broader strategy to enhance the resilience of the region against future environmental threats.
Local residents have expressed relief at the council's commitment to addressing these pressing issues. Many have been concerned about the safety of the roads and the potential for further landslides, especially after experiencing the impacts of severe weather in recent years. The approval of these projects is seen as a positive step towards ensuring the safety and stability of their community.
As the projects move forward, the municipality is expected to keep the public informed about the progress and any potential disruptions to local traffic and activities. This transparency is crucial in maintaining trust and cooperation between the council and the residents who rely on these essential routes.
Overall, the actions taken by the Genoa municipal council demonstrate a commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship. By investing in infrastructure improvements and risk mitigation strategies, the council is not only addressing current challenges but also preparing for a more resilient future in the face of climate variability.
As these projects begin, the community is hopeful that they will lead to a safer environment and a more secure future for all residents in the affected areas.
