ABSTRACT
Puerto de Cajas serves as a vital high-altitude passage in Ecuador, connecting the coastal region to the city of Cuenca. The stability of this rocky massif is carefully managed through the assessment of blocks and discontinuities, ensuring safe travel. This study presents a novel approach, employing rapid and cost-effective methods to evaluate an unexplored area within the protected expanse of Cajas. Using terrestrial photogrammetry and strategically positioned geomechanical stations along the slopes, we generated a detailed point cloud capturing elusive terrain features. We have used terrestrial photogrammetry for digitalization of the slope. Validation of the collected data was achieved by comparing directional data from Cloud Compare software with manual readings using a digital compass integrated in a phone at control points. The analysis encompasses three slopes, employing the SMR, Q-slope, and kinematic methodologies. Results from the SMR system closely align with kinematic analysis, indicating satisfactory slope quality. Nonetheless, continued vigilance in stability control remains imperative for ensuring road safety and preserving the site's integrity. Moreover, this research lays the groundwork for the creation of a publicly accessible 3D repository, enhancing visualization capabilities through Google Virtual Reality. This initiative not only aids in replicating the findings but also facilitates access to an augmented reality environment, thereby fostering collaborative research endeavors.
ABSTRACT
Elevated heavy metal(loid)s concentrations in water lower its quality posing a threat to consumers. This study aims to assess the human health risk caused by heavy metal(loid)s in tap water in Santa Rosa city, Ecuador, and the ecological risk of stream water and sediments in the Santa Rosa River. Concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn were evaluated in tap waters, stream waters, and sediment samples during the rainy and dry seasons. The Metal Index (MI), Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo), Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI), and the levels of carcinogenic (CR) and non-carcinogenic risk (HQ) were determined. The results revealed severe pollution levels, mainly in Los Gringos and El Panteon streams, both tributaries of the Santa Rosa River, the primary water source for Santa Rosa inhabitants. More than 20% of the surface water samples showed severe contamination (MI > 6), and 90% of the tap water samples presented a MI value between 1 and 4, which indicates slight to moderate pollution. Drinking water displayed high levels of As, with 83% of the tap water samples collected from households in the dry season above the recommended concentration set by the World Health Organization and Ecuadorian legislation. The Igeo-Cd in the sediment samples was significantly high (Igeo > 3), and the PERI showed very high ecological risk (PERI > 600), with Cd as the main pollutant. HQ and CR were above the safe exposure threshold, suggesting that residents are at risk from tap water consumption, with As being the primary concern.
