On February 7, 2025, President Luiz Ignácio Lula da Silva unveiled several ambitious water security initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents in Bahia. During a ceremony held in the town of Paramirim, Lula announced investments exceeding R$ 97.2 billion through the Novo PAC program, emphasizing the importance of these projects for ensuring access to clean water across the state.
The spotlight of the event was the inauguration of the first phase of the Adutora da Fé project, which aims to directly benefit 47,000 inhabitants of Bom Jesus da Lapa. This ambitious endeavor includes the construction of 5.8 kilometers of large-scale water pipes, allowing the procurement of water from the Rio São Francisco, bolstering the region's water supply. Lula noted with pride, "It's fantastic to return to the interior of Bahia, discussing something extraordinary—our Água para Todos program, which ensures every Brazilian can access water for drinking, bathing, cooking, and irrigation."
During the proceedings, the President also highlighted the federal government's commitment to combating misinformation and promoting democracy, subtly referencing the political climate leading up to the 2026 elections. Lula's remarks were accompanied by sentiments of optimism for the future as he stated, "By 2025, you will see the fruits of these policies, and they will be bountiful."
The announcement also included significant details about the second phase of the Adutora da Fé, which will bring R$ 258.7 million worth of improvements, and is slated to serve both Bom Jesus da Lapa and surrounding communities. This expanded project is set to meet the water needs of up to 140,000 residents by 2040, highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing water security.
Another key focus of the day was the completion of the Sistema de Esgotamento Sanitário (SES) project for Paramirim. Initiated back in 2011, this system has undergone significant redevelopment, benefitting 20,000 residents through the construction of 85.5 kilometers of sewer pipes, six lift stations, and numerous household connections, with investments totaling R$ 26.5 million. This upgrade is seen as pivotal for improving sanitary conditions and public health throughout the region.
Lula’s administration is also prioritizing drought prevention measures and overall water availability by initiating projects like the Barragem do Rio da Caixa. The R$ 123.1 million project is expected to significantly increase water storage capacity, providing relief to local populations during dry spells, thereby enhancing quality of life for many. Work on this dam is anticipated to begin by March 25, 2024, indicating immediate action to address long-standing water deficits.
Adding to the comprehensive nature of the day’s announcements was the launch of the Canal do Sertão Baiano project. This extensive initiative includes constructing 10.6 kilometers of canal, with planned investments of R$ 118.8 million. The canal will channel water from the Rio São Francisco, facilitating irrigation and water supply for municipalities such as Salitre, Tourão/Poções, and Itapicuru, benefiting more than 1.2 million people across 44 municipalities and creating 45,000 direct and indirect jobs.
These initiatives reflect the federal government's commitment to not only provide access to water but also to spur regional development and improve the overarching infrastructure necessary for sustainable living. The focus on water security resonates deeply within Brazilian society, particularly for communities vulnerable to climate change and water scarcity.
Lula assures the citizens of Bahia, "With these investments, we are finally giving people the dignity of clean water and proper sanitation, which are fundamental rights."
The initiatives launched on this significant day promise to have long-lasting impacts on the community, evidenced by the strong participation of local officials, including Bahia's Governor Jerônimo Rodrigues, who stressed the importance of these projects as part of the broader efforts initiated under the PAC (Growth Acceleration Program).
Looking forward, Lula expressed his determination to persistently engage with Bahia, ensuring continual support and investments, saying, "I will return to Bahia many times this year; you can count on it." This commitment emphasizes not just immediate action but also sustained attention toward the pressing challenges of water supply and sanitation.
Overall, Lula's announcements demonstrate a decisive move toward bolstering Bahia's water security infrastructure, as well as extending the reach of economic support systems, which are increasingly necessary amid Brazil's complex social and environmental challenges. With the Água para Todos program operating as the guiding framework, the administration aims to fulfill its promise of ensuring water for all citizens, marking it as pivotal for future governmental initiatives.