The Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira bridge, a vital link between the cities of Estreito and Aguiarnópolis, collapsed on Tuesday, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The 533-meter-long structure fell into the Tocantins River, causing the tragic deaths of at least four individuals, including three women and one man, as reported by the Maranhão Fire Department. In the aftermath, an investigation has been launched by the government to determine the cause of the catastrophic failure.
The collapse sent four trucks, three cars, and three motorbikes plummeting into the river. Among the vehicles, the trucks were carrying hazardous chemicals—25,000 liters of pesticides and 76 tons of sulfuric acid. The National Agency for Water and Basic Sanitation confirmed these details, which have raised significant concerns about potential environmental damage and water contamination in the region.
Thirteen people remain missing after the collapse, prompting an urgent search operation led by the Navy, which is deploying equipment and boats to aid in the effort. However, the search was temporarily suspended due to the dangerous presence of sulfuric acid in the river, complicating rescue efforts. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed his condolences to the families affected by this tragedy and assured that the government would support local authorities in managing this emergency situation.
In response to the disaster, plans are underway for a new company to be hired to design and construct a replacement bridge. Officials estimate that this new structure will be completed within a year, aiming to restore this crucial transportation link.
