Análisis de vulnerabilidad ante amenazas de inundación en la cuenca baja del río Bita, municipio de Puerto Carreño – Vichada

Abstract

This study addresses social vulnerability to floods in the lower basin of the Bita River, municipality of Puerto Carreño, Vichada, a region historically affected by recurrent flooding events causing devastating effects on local communities. Due to fragile socioeconomic conditions, inadequate institutional management, and increasing environmental degradation, this area faces constant threats that have severely impacted thousands of people and resulted in significant material damage. The general objective of the research is to comprehensively analyze social vulnerability to these natural hazards and propose specific strategies to mitigate risks and strengthen local adaptive capacities. A mixed methodology is employed, combining quantitative techniques such as structured surveys and statistical analysis, with qualitative methods including direct observation, and risk assessment using official matrices from Colombia’s National Disaster Risk Management Unit (UNGRD). The results include identifying critical conditions that heighten population exposure, particularly in vulnerable sectors, and defining practical measures for more effective risk management. It concludes that an effective and integrated response to flooding requires enhancing local institutional capacities, fostering active community participation, and strategically conserving natural ecosystems as protective barriers against disasters. This study significantly contributes to regional sustainability and resilience in facing extreme climate phenomena. Keywords: Social vulnerability, floods, risk management, community resilience, river basin, Bita River.