In February 2023, São Sebastião experienced catastrophic landslides triggered by unprecedented rains, resulting in 64 fatalities. In response to this tragedy, the neighborhood of Vila Sahy is now embarking on a crucial land regularization initiative, aimed at establishing secure land tenure for residents. This project is not only a step towards preventing future disasters but also a framework for sustainable urban development in the region.

The São Sebastião City Hall launched the Socioeconomic Registration Plan for Vila Sahy in January 2023, which is seen as instrumental for the progress of Urban Land Regularization (Reurb). This initiative involves comprehensive data collection through home visits, interviews, photographic records, and georeferencing of properties. The effort is enhanced by young monitors trained by the Coastal Conservation Institute and the State Technical School, facilitating a community-oriented approach to the registration process.

The Housing Secretariat emphasizes that all involved professionals are properly identified and trained to promote trust and transparency with the community. This regularization process not only seeks to rectify the legal status of housing in Vila Sahy but also plays a significant role in long-term disaster risk reduction, creating safer living conditions for the residents of this area previously devastated by natural disasters.