Faced with the bleak scenario left by the recent floods in Rio Grande do Sul, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva assured crucial support from the federal government for the reconstruction of the affected highways. In a statement made after an aerial inspection of the damage in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, the president promised not only financial resources, but also a concentrated effort to cut bureaucracy that could delay necessary works.
The scenario is critical: destroyed roads, completely isolated areas and an imminent risk of shortages. Governor Eduardo Leite, highlighting the seriousness of the situation, warned of the potential consequences of this catastrophe, which is already considered the largest of its kind in the state’s history. With Salgado Filho airport closed, roads blocked and a lack of basic services such as energy and water, rapid recovery is imperative to avoid a total collapse in several areas, including the country’s fourth largest economy.
The aid from the federal government, announced by President Lula, comes at a crucial time. “I know the state is facing significant financial difficulties and many roads are damaged. The Ministry of Transport will assist in the recovery of state roads”, stated Lula, guaranteeing that there will be no bureaucratic obstacles that could impede the progress of the works.
This visit to the state is Lula’s second since the start of the floods. Previously, he had visited the city of Santa Maria to coordinate rescue efforts and support victims. Now, the reconstruction of infrastructure is the priority, with special attention to highways, which are essential for logistics and the supply of industrial and agricultural inputs.
The Minister of National Integration, Waldez Góes, reinforced the importance of joint action between the federal and state governments and city halls, especially in areas where river levels begin to fall. He highlighted that, in addition to rescuing people still isolated, the immediate priority is to reestablish essential services and begin the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure.
In addition to financial and technical aid, Lula appealed to authorities to act preventively against future natural disasters. “It is essential to not only respond to disasters, but also prepare for them in advance to mitigate their impacts,” he said, suggesting a more proactive approach to risk and disaster management.
In this scenario, local authorities also play a fundamental role. The mayor of Porto Alegre, Sebastião Melo, called for a quick response in the release of resources so that reconstruction can begin without delay. He highlighted critical shortages of basic resources such as water and fuel for emergency trucks, which are hampering efforts to deal with the tragedy.
To date, the floods have resulted in 75 deaths, 155 injuries and 103 missing, directly affecting more than 781,000 state residents. As emergency teams continue their tireless work, the federal government’s promise of rapid support is a ray of hope for Rio Grande do Sul in a time of dire need.
