Geophysical investigations of an anthropogenic sinkhole in the Montelibretti village (Rome, central Italy)

On May 2010, due to heavy rainfall, a sinkhole developed
in correspondence of the S.P. Carolano roadway
(1+200 km, Montelibretti, Roma), in the southernmost sector
of the Sabina area. The collapse is located in correspondence
of a “U like” shaped profile of the roadway crossing the central
sector of a NNW trending valley. In order to obtain a
more complete geological characterization of the sinkhole
phenomenon, gravity, seismic and electrical investigations have been carried out on the base of previous detailed studies, historical
sources and maps. Due to recent propagation of the
sinkhole, probably related to the anthropogenic alteration of
the superficial drainage network in previous times and recently
triggered by heavy rains, local authorities decided to promptly
fill the sinkhole with arid material, in order to preserve public
safety. In this study is suggested the restoration of the natural
runoff of the water flow in the area.