Deprivation of basic sanitation in Vila Lídia, Noal neighborhood, Santa Maria (RS)

Abstract

The lack of basic sanitation is a historical problem, a territorial reflection of the socio-spatial inequalities that afflict most countries, especially Brazil. However, it is essential to evaluate these conditions in the real and practical life of people in Brazilian cities. Methods: In this perspective, this work aims to evaluate the basic sanitation conditions of Vila Lídia, located in the Noal neighborhood, in the center-west region of the city of Santa Maria, RS. To do this, we used bibliographic and documentary surveys, field data collection, with semi-structured interviews and systematic observation, as well as access to secondary data from the Companhia Riograndense de Saneamento (CORSAN) and the Instituto Brasileiro de Geografía e Estatística (IBGE). The problem of the lack of basic sanitation in Vila Lídia is the result of the historical process that goes from the transfer to the resettlement of the population, in an environmentally inappropriate area. Results: The deprivation of basic sanitation is the result of a certain human sanitation, very common in Brazilian cities. This original condition precludes any proposed action of "basic sanitation", this for social and physical-environmental reasons (a place that should never be inhabited). The solution first involves guaranteeing the right to territory and to an environment that allows minimum conditions for a dignified life.