Brazilian authorities are investigating the risks of water contamination after a deadly bridge collapse in Estreito, Maranhao state. On Sunday, trucks carrying sulfuric acid and agricultural pesticides plunged into the Tocantins River, killing at least four people and leaving over 10 missing.
Rescue efforts were halted due to concerns about the chemicals’ impact on the river’s water quality. Authorities are collecting and analyzing water samples from the river to assess the risk of contamination.
According to Brazilian water regulator ANA, three trucks carrying a total of 76 metric tons of sulfuric acid and agricultural pesticides entered the river. The state government and environmental secretary are working together to monitor the situation.
The incident has prompted warnings for cities that could be affected by the incident to avoid collecting water from the Tocantins River. Authorities have assured that they will take action if there is a risk of contamination, but the Environment Ministry has stated that the water pH levels were normal, according to current analysis results.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/brazil-probes-risks-chemicals-after-tankers-plunged-off-collapsed-bridge-2024-12-24