Abandoned and without maintenance, the largest dam in Alagoas poses risks to the population | 7Seconds

The Integrated Preventive Inspection (FPI) of the São Francisco River carried out an inspection of the Jaramataia dam, in Alagoas, built by the National Department of Works Against Droughts (Dnocs). The results revealed some concerns such as abandonment and lack of maintenance, which could create risks for the population living around the site.

Located 42 km from Arapiraca, headquarters of the 13th stage of the FPI in Alagoas, the Jaramataia dam is essential for the municipality’s water supply, in addition to supporting a colony of traditional fishermen. However, the infrastructure presents serious damage, as evidenced by the inspection team.

Technicians from the State Secretariat for the Environment and Water Resources of Alagoas (Semarh), the Environmental Institute (IMA) and the Regional Engineering and Agronomy Council (Crea), together with the Federal Public Ministry (MPF), found erosion in the structure caused by vehicle traffic and lack of drainage.

According to the coordinator of the FPI Dam Safety team, Luciano Lima, the visible damage to the dam, highlighting that the depth of the valley and the dense vegetation, make an accurate assessment difficult, even with the use of technologies such as drones. Furthermore, the absence of a dam safety plan by Dnocs is worrying.

Public Prosecutor Érico Gomes Souza, member of the MPF in Alagoas, expressed concern about the situation, emphasizing the lack of documentation on the safety of the dam and the negligence of the developer. He highlighted the importance of taking measures to ensure the maintenance and recovery of structures, essential for the survival of the population of the semi-arid region of Alagoas.

The final reports from the FPI Dam Safety team, which will be delivered by the end of the operation, will highlight the problems identified and make recommendations to resolve them.

Built in the 1960s, the Jaramataia dam directly benefits hundreds of families, especially fishermen, and plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of drought in the region. However, the lack of maintenance puts not only these communities at risk, but also others that could benefit from the reservoir in the event of extreme drought.