Geomorphological aspects of the human impact in the alpine area of Southern Carpathians (Romania)

Abstract

This paper deals with some human geomorphological aspects concerning the impact in the alpine area of the Southern Carpathians (Transylvanian Alps). After field investigations and taking into account the major effects of road building, military and mining activities, pasture and tourism activities in the geomorphological landscape we have the possibilities to present a distinct image of some relevant detailed situations. In our opinion the building of roads in the alpine area is by far the most dangerous way of intervention in the geomorphological landscape of the alpine area of the Southern Carpathians. The construction of these roads has altered the profile of the slope and new scarps have appeared. This situation associated with the vibrations induced by the traffic favours frost weathering, rock falling and rolling, coupled with the emergence of specific deposits and landforms (talus cones and scree) and, of course, with vertical and gully erosion, which is very typical of the area of soft rocks and soils.