Amazon-based port in Manacapuru collapses amid construction work

A major disaster struck the Terra Preta Port in Manacapuru, Amazonas, on Monday afternoon (7th), as a landslide caused part of the port’s structure to collapse. Despite ongoing construction works, the port remained operational as a critical hub for cargo and passenger transport.

Civil Defense has confirmed that one child is missing, though eyewitness reports suggest that up to 200 people may have been buried in the debris.

The port is a bustling site for cargo handling, with heavy foot traffic, taxis, and motorcycle taxis regularly operating in the area.

In the aftermath of the landslide, wreckage—including floating houses, pipes, cars, and other debris—was seen in the river. Floating structures like houseboats and hotels, often used for living and leisure, are common along the riverbanks.

Erosion in the Solimões Region

The Terra Preta Port is home to both the Hydroport Terminal and the Municipal Fisheries Department (Sempa), serving as a strategic link between Manacapuru and surrounding communities.

The disaster may be linked to a local phenomenon known as “terras caídas,” or landfalls, which result from severe riverbank erosion along the Solimões River, now experiencing the worst drought in recorded history. These landfalls are caused by a process of fluvial erosion, leading to landslides, collapses, and slides—such as the one that occurred here.

The Manacapuru City Hall issued a statement expressing its sorrow over the tragedy and confirmed that Civil Defense, Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services (SAMU) teams are on-site conducting rescue and recovery efforts.

The National Department of Transport Infrastructure (DNIT) also released a statement clarifying that Terra Preta Port is not under its jurisdiction. DNIT manages the Small Public Port Facilities—IP4 facility in Manacapuru and has dispatched technical teams to assess potential damage and safety risks to the IP4 structure.

Photo and text: reproduction from Agência Brasil

Hyperlink to original reporting: https://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/geral/noticia/2024-10/porto-em-manacapuru-no-amazonas-desaba-em-meio-obras

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