The 2025 Re-Pa Classic is poised to take place at the Estádio Olímpico do Pará, known as Mangueirão, this Sunday, February 23, 2025, marking yet another chapter in the storied rivalry between the football clubs Remo and Paysandu. With both teams expecting to draw around 47,000 fans, authorities have ramped up their preparations to manage traffic and security during this high-stakes match.
The magnitude of the event necessitates substantial logistical planning. The Belém municipal government, through its secretariat of security, public order, and mobility, has rolled out special operational measures to coordinate traffic management and security. "Geralmente, em grandes eventos e jogos com grande público, o esquema de trânsito é planejado em conjunto com o município," explained Ivan Feitosa, coordinator of operations for the Department of Traffic (Detran). This collaboration involves extensive coordination between Detran and the Urban Mobility Executive Secretariat (Semob) to facilitate smooth transit access for the influx of fans.
On match day, several key avenues leading to the stadium will be opened to traffic, including the Transmangueirão and Augusto Montenegro. Traffic officials will be strategically positioned to guide motorists entering the area, ensuring the safety and efficiency of circulation. Notable changes include the use of BRT lanes when deemed necessary to alleviate congestion.
Security is as much of a priority as traffic management. A total of 1,340 security personnel, comprising police officers, military staff, and bomber personnel from various state and municipal bodies, will be deployed around the stadium. Ualame Machado, head of the Public Security and Social Defense Secretariat (Segup), stated, "Um forte esquema de segurança foi montado para a ocasião." This extensive presence aims to maintain peace and order, especially after recent reports of violence between rival fans. Videos circulating on social media have already raised concerns following incidents where supporters attempted to attack opposing fans.
The security plan is not just reactive; it's proactive, encompassing measures to monitor possible disturbances and to prevent them before they can escalate. The recent history of the Re-Pa Classic suggests the necessity for such comprehensive planning. The iconic rivalry has often witnessed clashes between fierce fans, increasing anxieties around violence during large gatherings.
Such measures come after troubling exchanges between rival groups. For example, reports from the eve of the match indicated instances of violence, where groups of Paysandu supporters were seen dragging and attacking individuals wearing the colors of Clube do Remo. These alarming incidents heighten the urgency of the established security forces and traffic regulations, providing assurance to the public and ensuring the event's success.
Efforts will extend beyond just security personnel. Detran will similarly oversee traffic through various measures planned for the hours leading up to the game, with designated routes to prevent bottlenecks and offer clear access to the stadium. Coordination will highlight the importance of maintaining orderly, safe passage for the expected crowd.
Parking arrangements and the flow of vehicles will be carefully directed to minimize congestion after the match, enabling fans to leave efficiently and maintaining pedestrian safety. These preparations reflect the local government's commitment to making the event successful amid logistical challenges.
Anticipation for the Re-Pa Classic extends beyond the field as supporters of both clubs prepare for the thrilling encounter. Each match tells its own story, and as history has shown, this significant clash is not just about the game; it's about community, rivalry, and pride. With careful planning and extensive execution of safety measures, authorities aim to strike the right balance where fans can express their passion without incident.
On Sunday at 5 PM, as Remo and Paysandu face off, the atmosphere at the Mangueirão will be electric. The preparations highlight the importance placed not only on the tradition and spirit of the game but also on ensuring the festivities proceed without strife. It's more than just football; it's about ensuring the community can enjoy the match safely.