Search for Missing People Complicated by Sulfuric Acid Spill in Brazil
A recent bridge collapse in northern Brazil has resulted in a complex search and rescue operation, further complicated by the spill of 76 tons of sulfuric acid into a nearby river.
Bridge Collapse and Acid Spill
Last Sunday, the Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira bridge, a vital connection between the states of Maranhao and Tocantins, collapsed while eight vehicles were crossing. Among the vehicles were three trucks carrying large quantities of pesticide and sulfuric acid, which fell into the Tocantins River.
The National Water Agency reported that the trucks were carrying 22 thousand liters of pesticide and 76 tons of sulfuric acid, a highly corrosive chemical product. Authorities are currently analyzing water samples to assess the level of contamination in the river.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The search for 13 missing people is ongoing, with boats scouring the surface of the river. However, diving operations have been suspended until it is determined whether the acid poses a danger to rescue teams.
So far, four fatalities have been confirmed, including the driver of the truck transporting acid and an eleven-year-old girl. One person was rescued alive on Sunday.
Investigation and Response
The causes of the bridge collapse, which spans over half a kilometer, are still being investigated. A resident of the area had previously published a video online highlighting the “danger” posed by the bridge’s condition, which showed visible cracks.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has pledged the full support of the federal government for the rescue efforts and investigation into the collapse.
As a precautionary measure, water supply has been suspended in neighboring towns.