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Local News
23 December 2024

Tragedy Strikes As Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge Collapses

Two confirmed dead, eight missing after catastrophic failure of historic bridge over Tocantins River

A significant tragedy unfolded on Sunday, December 22, 2024, when part of the Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge, connecting the states of Tocantins and Maranhão, collapsed over the Tocantins River, leaving at least two confirmed dead and several others missing. The incident occurred around 2:50 PM and involved multiple vehicles, including trucks, motorcycles, and cars, falling from the structure.

This bridge, which was inaugurated over sixty years ago, served as a key transportation route linking Aguiarnópolis (TO) and Estreito (MA), being part of the Rodovia BR-226. It had recently been reported to show signs of structural wear, with residents expressing concerns over its ability to support the heavy flow of traffic. Elias Junior, the newly elected councilman from Aguiarnópolis, was filming the bridge when the collapse started. He remarked, "This bridge has been around for over 60 years, and as you can see through social media, the news has shown... the bridge can no longer support the heavy flow of heavy vehicles passing through here." His videos captured the panic as the structure began to crumble, warning the nearby community.

Tragically, two lives were lost. The deceased include Alana, 25, and Marçon Gley Ferreira, 42, both of whom were on motorcycles. The search for the eight others reported missing, which includes two children, two women, and four men, was complicated by the hazardous conditions at the scene. The Maranhão Military Fire Department confirmed the recovery of Alana's body from the river, alongside reports of injuries and missing individuals. Rescuers, facing the challenge of both structural instability and dangerous materials from several trucks involved, had to temporarily halt their search but resumed later with limited resources.

Authorities highlighted the risks posed by the collapse; one truck transported sulfuric acid, raising safety concerns for first responders and local residents alike. The depth of the river, exceeding 50 meters, posed additional challenges for the search effort, which required specialized divers and equipment.

The Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge is not only significant for its longevity but also for its role as part of major route systems, such as the BR-226 and the BR-230 (Transamazônica), facilitating the transport of goods and passengers across the North and Northeast of Brazil. Local officials have reported instances of tremors and cracks on the bridge prior to the collapse, with community members urging for repairs which unfortunately came too late. Structural assessments will soon be undertaken by the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (DNIT), which stated, "The DNIT is evaluating the situation, investigating possible causes, and taking necessary measures."

The state governors of Maranhão and Tocantins have mobilized emergency services and resources for the rescue efforts. Governor Wanderlei Barbosa emphasized the importance of prioritizing the victims, declaring, "We must now take care of the victims of this terrible accident." The authorities are coordinating efforts to provide necessary support and have established alternative routes for displaced travelers disrupted by the bridge's collapse. Drivers are being guided to take detours via Darcinópolis to access the main roadways safely.

Sadly, this collapse brings to light the pressing need for infrastructure maintenance to prevent such disasters from occurring again. The lasting impact on the local economy and transport logistics will likely be felt for some time, shaking the communities reliant on this connection. With so many lives impacted, the focus now rests on recovery and investigation, coupled with the hope to avert future tragedies under similar circumstances.

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