Author(s): G. Adriana Camino; Aida Zapata Mar

Linked Author(s): Adriana Camino

Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: An investigation was carried out to observe the hydrodynamics of river streams in Cusco valley (Huatanay river valley) with the purpose of revisiting flood prevention and/or mitigation measures in the valley mainstreams under the view of Inca’s engineering design practices. The Inca’s hydraulic infrastructure constructed more than500 years ago is believed to have followed ecological standards that sustainably upkeep until our days (Wright et al., 2006). Inca’s engineering philosophy is analyzed herein under ecological design principles. Three prominent water courses contributing to Huatanay River were initially examined to define commonplace scenarios in which the streams flow. These scenarios included: 1. urban development areas, 2. dam-prone sections, 3. flat terrains or floodplains, and 4. agriculture areas. A section of one of the main tributaries, Chocco stream, was selected which enclosed the typified scenarios. Chocco was particularly relevant as it showed an acute flooding situation in year2010. A number of houses were washed away and people perished at this location then. Chocco stream section was simulated numerically to understand the main hydrodynamic features and the nature of the flooding flow. Based on the hydrodynamic observations and inspired on the Inca’s hydraulic designs, a schematic of flood prevention structures is presented herein.

DOI:

Year: 2018