Utoo Radio with Other News Sources - August 12, 2024 - The Pantanal, the largest tropical wetland on Earth, is at risk of extinction due to the development of the Paraguay River, one of its main arteries.
The river is home to 380 species of fish, 580 types of birds, and 2,272 different plants, and is a refuge for jaguars and houses a host of vulnerable and endangered species. However, plans are underway to revive the Paraguay River as an industrial shipping route for crops like soya beans and sugar.
Critics argue that the creation of the waterway would cause irreversible damage to the wetland and its wildlife. The threat of the development, known as the Hidrovia Paraguay-Paraná waterway, has haunted the Pantanal for decades.
The Brazilian government announced last year that the Paraguay River would be developed under its growth acceleration programme, with an investment of 81m reais [£11m] for dredging, clearing vegetation, and adapting the navigable channel's signage. Opponents argue that this is the first step towards transforming the largest natural section of the Paraguay River into an engineered waterway.
The Pantanal, a region of over 1,200 rivers and streams, is facing threats from dredging and deepening, which could create a "big drain" and shrink the wetland area.
This could destroy aquatic habitats, fish populations, bird nesting areas, and affect other species throughout the food chain.
The Pantanal is a critical carbon sink, but perpetual dredging could release greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming. The risk of wildfires could also increase, but these concerns are not being heard.
The Pantanal is considered a national heritage, but local businessmen believe the waterway will bring economic development and wealth to the region. Adilson Reis, an engineer from Cáceres, predicts the waterway will be operational by 2026.
The Brazilian ministry for ports and airports has denied concerns about environmental damage, but certain conditions can be enforced to mitigate the risk. The ministry of environment and climate change has not responded to requests for comment. Despite the concerns, the Pantanal remains a vital part of the Brazilian ecosystem.
