The requirement for climate change impact studies along 1,357 km of highways already concessioned or in the concession process by the current administration, through the State Secretariat for Investment Partnerships (SPI), strengthens São Paulo’s environmental agenda.
These assessments were mandatory for the Nova Raposo concession (92 km) in Greater São Paulo and for the Rota Sorocabana concession (460 km) in the state’s southwest. They are also included in the contract for the 285 km of the Paranapanema lot, also in the southwest, and form part of the 520 km of highways in the Rota Mogiana network, covering the regions of Campinas, São João da Boa Vista and Águas da Prata up to the border with Minas Gerais, with bidding scheduled for early 2026.
The study aims to increase resilience against extreme hydrological events by implementing improvements in areas exposed to climate risks. It assesses the effectiveness of existing drainage systems, considering factors such as rainfall frequency, terrain slope, flow velocity and maximum discharge volumes.
The assessment also identifies critical areas affected by erosion, siltation and “gullies,” meaning large cavities formed by rainwater and erosion in areas where vegetation no longer protects the soil, making it vulnerable to runoff. According to concession contracts, the studies must be updated after each new infrastructure intervention, in addition to a semiannual update submitted to the São Paulo State Transport Regulatory Agency (Artesp).
If drainage system adjustments are necessary, the concessionaire implements the required interventions in line with Artesp guidelines. After analysis, devices such as retention basins and buffering systems are installed to control and dissipate stormwater, minimizing regional impacts. The aim is to ensure efficient stormwater management and enhance road infrastructure. These interventions generate direct benefits such as improved water quality, ecosystem protection and safer public spaces.