Geomorphological and anthropic impacts over land surface displacements: Application of DInSAR technique to the case of Bahía Blanca city, Argentina

Abstract

This article analyses the Line of Sight (LOS) surface velocity for the 2016 − 2020 period, in Bahía Blanca city using DInSAR technique. The results show significant LOS velocities in determinate sectors of the city, presenting values of up to −20 mm/year. Based on the results, we divide the city into three different sectors as a function of LOS velocity, the urban growth factor, and the topographic slope. Sector A, where the subsidence is being induced by loads of new buildings, soil compaction and waterproofing, and residential groundwater pumping. Sector B, where the highest displacement rates are triggered by a combination between groundwater pumping and soil creep process. Sector C has the lowest velocities, low urban growth factor, and absence of groundwater pumping. In all cases, the surface displacement indicates that a review of the urban planning should be carried out as well as increasing control over the groundwater exploitation.