O acessa à água em áreas periféricas: o Distrito de Imbariê, Duque de Caxias, Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

Extensive literature reveals that the metropolises in Brazil continue to present two peculiar characteristics – at the same time they are loci of concentration of wealth and locus of concentration of poverty. In these spaces, it is not uncommon to come across serious infrastructure problems involving basic citizenship services. Constituting a true denial of urban services, which affects mainly the poorest. The current scenario influenced by the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) exposes this situation relatively clearly. The issue surrounding water in these spaces is also very revealing. Understanding it as an indispensable resource for the functioning of cities and the survival of its residents, it can be said that its distribution, as well as the presence and characteristics of infrastructure and sanitation services in a given area are indicators of spatial and social differentiation. Following this analysis, the work here proposes a study on the theme of drinking water supply in a peripheral area of the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro – the municipality of Duque de Caxias –, highlighting the situation of its Third District. Therefore, the issue was investigated in depth, seeking to understand the contradictory logic of water distribution, highlighting how its supply dynamics has affected the condition and quality of life of the local population. It is still important to expose clearly and reflect on the causes of the problem, looking for solutions. Based on this, it would be interesting to develop alternative proposals, based on perspectives more directed towards the right to the city; water should be made available to everyone, without distinction. The research consists of surveys and analysis of data obtained in the field, mainly through participation in meetings and events promoted by the Association of Residents of Santa Lúcia and Imbariê (AMASLI), educational institutions, government departments and works developed by the research group from the Urban Water Studies Laboratory (LEAU/PROURB/UFRJ) on the issue of water supply in the municipality. Interviews were also carried out with the local population. Empirical data are related to the theory that supported the thesis; whose theoretical framework is the political ecology of water, a field in which the concept of hydrosocial cycle is constructed. The results show how the Hydrosocial Cycle of the District of Imbariê is organized today; highlighting its elements and constraints. A proposal for an environmentally and socially fairer Hydrosocial Cycle is also presented, seeking alternative procedures that can solve the problems related to water supply in the area object of this study. The proposal also discusses the construction of hydrosocial cycles – in the plural – for the area, taking into account the real local potential. It is really about rethinking a new water policy, which, in addition to ensuring fairer access to this resource, frees people from monetary dependency, taxes, defaults. It concludes from the verification of the objectives, hypotheses and punctuated questions and reflections about the work developed and the results obtained.