At least two fatalities and several missing persons resulted from a bridge collapse in Brazil.
On Sunday, a bridge collapse in Brazil sent a truck carrying sulfuric acid into the Tocantins River. This disaster resulted in at least two confirmed deaths, with multiple individuals still unaccounted for. Rescue divers had to suspend operations temporarily due to the acid leak.
The 550-meter bridge, linking Estreito (Maranhão state) and Aguiarnopolis (Tocantins state), collapsed while several vehicles, including cars and two trucks, were crossing. One truck was carrying sulfuric acid; the other’s cargo is yet unknown.
Local reports identify a 25-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man among the deceased. At least eight people remain missing.
Rescue efforts were briefly halted for safety and environmental protection reasons due to the acid spill. Search operations resumed by nightfall, utilizing boats instead of divers from the Military Firefighters Corps. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, prioritizing safety.
Ponte Juscelino Kubitschek de outro ângulo!
— Pavão Misterious 𝕏 🇧🇷 (@misteriouspavao)
The Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira Bridge, over 60 years old, had been a source of concern. A local deputy’s video, incidentally recording the collapse, showed its deteriorating state.
The video depicts him highlighting a significant crack before the bridge’s sudden failure, prompting his retreat.
While the cause of the collapse is under investigation, preliminary findings suggest structural failure due to the weight of multiple heavy trucks crossing concurrently. The National Department of Transport Infrastructure (DNIT) reported a collapse of the bridge’s central 533-meter span, causing vehicles to fall into the river (over 50 meters deep).
The collapsed bridge was a key part of the BR-226 highway, connecting Brasília and Belém (site of next year’s UN Climate Change Conference). The highway is closed, with DNIT providing alternative routes.