Anticipation fills the air as the Carnival holiday approaches, but for many drivers heading to the Região dos Lagos from Rio de Janeiro, the experience begins with patience and delays. This Thursday, February 27, traffic has already become slow on the main highways, as reports indicate heavy congestion on the BR-101/RJ, especially at key access points to Niterói.
Since the early hours, motorists have faced intense traffic flow, particularly between kilometers 303 and 293, from São Gonçalo to Itaboraí, and between kilometers 210 and 206 near Casimiro de Abreu. Meanwhile, Rua B remains closed, forcing drivers to divert to the RJ-104. Despite the heavy traffic, the weather is favorable, with clear skies overhead.
On the Ponte Rio-Niterói, the situation mirrors the delays on the highways. Crossing to Niterói currently takes about 16 minutes, largely due to queuing at the toll booths, whereas traffic heading toward Rio remains smooth, taking around 13 minutes. Congestion is particularly pronounced within Niterói’s South Zone, especially at the Raul Veiga Tunnel and Avenida Ary Parreiras.
Accidents have also contributed to the congestion. A collision involving a bus, car, and motorcycle occurred at Largo da Batalha, creating delays since 9:45 AM. Another incident with motorcycles on the Ponto Cem Réis Viaduct necessitated intervention from NITTRANS officials.
Traffic complications extend beyond just Niterói. The city of Rio de Janeiro is experiencing its share of issues as well, with one lane of the Linha Vermelha blocked near Galeão due to another accident, creating significant backup heading toward the downtown area. Avenida Brasil reports congestion stretching from Irajá to Caju.
Looking ahead, the concessionaire Arteris Fluminense anticipates a dramatic increase in vehicular traffic over the coming days. From February 28 to March 6, about 720,000 vehicles are expected to traverse the BR-101/RJ, with significant congestion expected between Niterói and Rio Bonito, Campos dos Goytacazes, and Casimiro de Abreu.
The pressures on the Ponte Rio-Niterói are also set to rise, as the concessionaire Ecoponte estimates approximately 1.7 million vehicles will cross by March 10, with the busiest times forecasted for February 27 and 28, as well as during the return from the holiday on March 6, 7, and 10.
On the day prior to the anticipated surge, drivers traveling toward the beaches or other carnival hotspots must come prepared. With the playful combination of patience and refreshments necessary, many are already unofficially embracing the festive spirit on their journeys.
To assist those caught in traffic, Ecoponte maintains 24-hour assistance services. Help can be reached at their helpline or via WhatsApp, ensuring motorists have access to necessary support amid the holiday freneticism.
Meanwhile, at the BR-101 in Manilha, Itaboraí, the situation remains challenging. Arteris Fluminense reported around 96,000 vehicles expected on the road throughout the day, evidencing the start of traffic congestion well before the major celebrations. Another increase of 105,000 vehicles is forecast for Friday between 3 PM and 10 PM, with even more congestion expected on the segment spanning 60 kilometers between Niterói and Rio Bonito, alongside urban areas of Campos dos Goytacazes and Casimiro de Abreu.
Authorities are prepared to handle the expected traffic challenges, with emergency vehicles and assistance teams available along the full length of the over 322-kilometer stretch of highway. Regardless of the congestion, drivers are encouraged to retain their carnival spirits, even if it means letting the drumstick on the dashboard to keep the rhythm during long waits.
With preparations ramping up for one of Brazil's most vibrant holidays, drivers are reminded to remain patient and safe as they make their way to celebrate Carnival, where the true excitement of the festive season awaits them.