The Navy suspended diving work and the use of underwater drones in the search for those missing from the collapse of the Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira Bridge, on BR-226, between Estreito (MA) and Aguiarnópolis (TO). The suspension is due to the need to control the volume flow of the Estreito Hydroelectric Plant, operated by the Estreito Energia Consortium (Ceste).
According to the communications department of the 4th Naval District Command, which coordinates the work, the searches this Friday are taking place only with the use of aerial drones and boats.
Search operations were suspended on Wednesday, but resumed yesterday with new exploratory dives carried out in the direction of the river’s current, that is, further downstream of the location already swept by divers. To date, 14 people have been located and identified and three people remain missing.
THE suspension of work occurred due to the need to open the dam gates of the Estreito Hydroelectric Plant, to release the volume of the reservoir increased by the rainfall in the region.
The Navy said it continues to evaluate the scenario and that, in yesterday’s searches, no evidence was found that could lead to the location of the last three missing people.
