Brazil is constructing a new highway in the Amazon to service COP30 in Bélem. The project aims to improve traffic flow but raises environmental concerns as it cuts through a protected area. Mixed local reactions reveal a divide between economic benefits and ecological damage.
Brazil is undertaking the construction of a new highway in the Amazon rainforest, termed Avenida Liberdade, to facilitate access for the upcoming COP30 climate conference in Bélem. This city, with a population of approximately 1.3 million and often seen as a gateway to the Amazon River, is also developing a central square featuring amenities such as kiosks, rain gardens, a playground, and outdoor facilities. Improvements to rainwater management, sewage, and energy systems are also planned.
The new four-lane highway aims to alleviate traffic congestion in Bélem, particularly ahead of the climate conference expected to attract over 50,000 attendees, including significant figures from global leadership and activism. Currently, the highway construction is 20% complete, with plans for two lanes in each direction alongside dedicated cyclist lanes and sustainable lighting solutions.
Local Vice-Governor Hana Tuma hailed the Avenida Liberdade as a transformative development for the metropolitan area, referring to it as a “dream.” Meanwhile, residents like Claudio Verequete express concerns over income loss due to deforestation linked to the highway, stating he received no compensation for the loss of his berry harvesting land.
On the other hand, some locals, such as shoemaker Dalci Cardoso da Silva, view the development positively, noting increased foot traffic and improved city infrastructure. The state government’s infrastructure secretary, Adler Silveira, described the highway as an “important mobility intervention” and framed it as a sustainable initiative.
Significantly, the highway will cut through the Metropolitan Belém Environmental Protection Area, established to safeguard against environmental degradation. This raises questions about compliance with existing environmental regulations, particularly as images indicate construction within this protected zone. The official government documentation stipulates that such disruptive activities should not occur in this designated area.
In summary, Brazil is initiating the construction of the Avenida Liberdade highway in the Amazon rainforest to accommodate the COP30 climate conference, leading to mixed reactions from locals. While some see potential benefits for the city’s infrastructure and economy, others lament the environmental impacts and loss of livelihood caused by the project. The situation underscores a paradox of promoting climate initiatives while simultaneously risking protected ecosystems.
Original Source: nationalpost.com
