The BR-319 motorway plays an important role as the only land link between Manaus and other regions of Brazil. However, during the rainy season, the sections of the road that cut through the forest become impassable. The paving project has been criticised by environmentalists, who fear possible impacts on the region, such as an increase in land grabbing and environmental crime. The Ministry of Transport's plan is to install four-metre fences along the highway to prevent penetration into the forest, with only three or four accesses to established settlements. In addition, 170 wildlife crossings will be built, allowing animals to cross the road without risk. The estimated cost of the project is R$2 billion, according to preliminary studies. The Ministry states that the proposal aims to reconcile the necessary infrastructure with environmental preservation and the well-being of local communities. The parkway concept is presented as a new approach, seeking to guarantee environmental protection while at the same time meeting the region's demands for connectivity and development.

Source: Amazon Agency