10 Cosas Que No Sabías Del Riachuelo

Key Concepts: Riachuelo, Arroyo de la Matanza, ACUMAR, history, pollution, infrastructure, ecology.

1. General Characteristics and Dimensions:

• The Riachuelo's mouth was historically the largest natural port in Argentina.
• It extends for 64 kilometers and reaches a width of 35 meters in some areas.
• Its depth varies from 1 to 7 meters.

2. Hydrology:

• Over 230 streams feed into the Riachuelo's main channel.
• It's characterized as a plain river with a gentle slope and slow flow.
• The flow rate is influenced by the Río de la Plata and climatic conditions.

3. Early Regulations:

• In 1653, when it was known as Arroyo de la Matanza, the first law mandated the government to provide a canoe for crossing the river.

4. Flora:

• The Riachuelo is home to a distinctive flower, the orchid of the tala, visible along its banks throughout the basin.

5. Historical Significance: "Las Barracas"

• Around 1800, warehouses ("barracas") were established for storing hides and other import/export products.
• These warehouses lent their name to the present-day neighborhood.

6. The Great Flood of 1877:

• The winter of 1877 saw a major flood, resulting in the deaths of 3,000 pigs, 200 dogs, and 15,000 chickens.

7. The Streetcar Accident of 1930:

• On July 12, 1930, streetcar number 75 of line 105, traveling from Temperley to Constitución, plunged into the river with 62 passengers.
• This event was depicted in a film by Tita Merelo.

8. Bridges:

• The first bridge was constructed in 1865.
• Currently, there are 15 bridges spanning the Riachuelo.
• The Nicolás Avellaneda transporter bridge is the most famous and is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status.

9. Current State and ACUMAR's Role:

• Thousands of people traverse the Riachuelo's banks daily, often unaware of its historical and ecological significance.
• ACUMAR (Matanza-Riachuelo Basin Authority) is actively working to restore the Riachuelo's importance in Argentine history.

10. Synthesis/Conclusion:

The Riachuelo, historically a vital port and resource, has faced challenges including pollution and disasters. Despite these issues, it retains ecological significance and historical importance. ACUMAR's efforts aim to revitalize the river and restore its prominence in Argentina's heritage.