SWOT ANALYZES ON THE IMPACT OF ENGINEERING WORKS FROM ARGES RIVER BASIN ON FLUVIAL SYSTEMS

Soare Mariana, University of Bucharest, Romania

Abstract

Arges river basin is one of the most built-up river catchments of Romania, as evidenced by the multitude of existing hydro-technical works therein. In addiction to their economical advantages, these "features" are, however, quantity, quality, ecological and hydro- geomorphologic pressure factors on the existing aquatic units, which reflect (directly or indirectly) negatively on society and ecosystems.
According to the Water Framework Directive requirements, knowledge of anthropogenic pressure forms on water resources is highly imperative, in order to identify the quality of water bodies in order to adopt adequate measures to protect and conserve.
The paper is a an inventory and a summary analysis of key hydro-technical works   on the Arges hydrographic basin (dams, derivatives, river regulations, embankments and flood defenses) performed on water courses for different purposes: electricity generation, different water demands, defense against water destructive effects, control of excessive humidity, regulation of natural water flows during different periods of time (daily, weekly, seasonal, annual, etc.).
In order to quantify the impact of hydro-technical works on surface waters, a SWOT analysis is very frequently used. This method of analysis was applied on the Arges Basin in order to identify, negative and positive effects of hydro technical works, opportunities and risks associated to engineering works that should allow adopting strategies of water management so that the sustainable development concept is complied with.