Construction of Amazon Highway for COP30 Summit Triggers Widespread Outrage
The construction of a new four-lane highway, Avenida Liberdade, in Belem, Brazil, for the upcoming COP30 climate summit has led to significant deforestation of the Amazon rainforest, sparking outrage among locals and conservationists. The project, which aims to modernize infrastructure for the summit, has faced criticism for its environmental implications, despite the government’s claims of sustainability. Local residents report lack of financial compensation for their losses due to the cleared land.
A significant area of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil is being cleared for a new four-lane highway, named Avenida Liberdade, ahead of the COP30 climate summit scheduled in Belem this November. The construction, spanning eight miles, aims to manage the expected influx of over 50,000 attendees but has provoked outrage among conservationists and local residents due to its impact on the environment.
Critics find it profoundly ironic that a conference intended to address climate change is supported by the destruction of a protected rainforest. Despite the environmental concerns, the state government has promoted the highway as a “sustainable” initiative, noting that lush forest remains on both sides of the road, although logs have been stacked along the cleared sections.
The highway project, intended to modernize infrastructure for the summit, had previously been stalled due to ecological issues. Nonetheless, with the upcoming event, numerous infrastructure initiatives have been revived, including new hotels and a revamped port for cruise ships.
Adler Silveira, the state government secretary, ranks this highway among 30 projects aimed at enhancing the city’s preparations. Upon completion, the highway is set to feature wildlife crossings, bike lanes, and solar lighting. Additionally, the Brazilian government has allocated over $81 million to increase airport capacity significantly.
Local resident Claudio Verequete expressed frustration over the deforestation, stating that trees essential for his acai berry harvest have been removed without any financial assistance from the government, forcing him to rely solely upon personal savings.
In conclusion, the construction of the Avenida Liberdade highway in preparation for the COP30 climate summit exemplifies a significant contradiction regarding environmental preservation. While the project aims to modernize infrastructure and support a large influx of visitors, it raises serious concerns about the impact on the Amazon rainforest. Local residents like Claudio Verequete have voiced grievances over deforestation without financial support, highlighting the ongoing struggle between development and conservation in the region.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
