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DNIT confirms progress in the reconstruction of the structure that collapsed in 2024, connecting Aguiarnópolis (TO) to Estreito (MA)
Construction of the new bridge over the Tocantins River, which collapsed in December 2024, is now 20% complete, according to the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (DNIT). The structure is essential for connecting the states of Tocantins and Maranhão, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Bridge reconstruction advances as a priority
According to information released by G1 Tocantins, DNIT reported that the reconstruction works on the Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira bridge are in full swing and have already reached 20% completion. The old structure, which connected Aguiarnópolis (TO) and Estreito (MA), collapsed at the end of 2024 after showing signs of structural wear that had been evident since 2019. The federal government allocated between R$100 million and R$150 million for the new bridge. work, with delivery scheduled for December 2025.
The new bridge is being treated as a priority, since its absence has directly affected the logistics flow and the daily lives of residents in both regions. The Ministry of Transport has emphasized that the work is progressing at a fast pace, and DNIT emphasizes that, over the next few months, new stages will be initiated to ensure the solidity of the crossing.
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Bridge collapsed with vehicles and toxic cargo
The bridge collapsed on December 22, 2024, at around 14:50 p.m., causing vehicles to fall, including trucks carrying dangerous cargo, 76 tons of sulfuric acid and around 25 liters of pesticides. In total, 14 deaths were confirmed and three people remain missing, according to Agência Brasil. Only one victim was rescued alive.
The possible contamination of the Tocantins River caused fear among residents of the region. Cities such as Imperatriz (MA) temporarily suspended their water supply. However, subsequent technical reports indicated that the containers with toxic products remained sealed, minimizing environmental damage.
Implosion of the old structure and beginning of the new bridge
The compromised structure was imploded on February 2, 2025, with the removal of approximately 7 tons of debris. The new bridge began to be built in the same area, using modern technologies and structural reinforcement, with the aim of ensuring long-term safety.
According to DNIT, the problems with the bridge had been known since 2019, when inspections revealed cracks and tilting pillars. In 2024, a tender was opened to renovate the bridge, but none of the bidders met the technical requirements of the notice. The Federal Police opened an investigation to investigate the causes and possible responsibilities for the collapse of the structure.
Investment and reinforced supervision
With reconstruction underway, the federal government promises to reinforce inspection and speed up the project's execution. The new route, according to DNIT, also provides for improvements in the surrounding area to ensure greater fluidity and safety in traffic between the two states. The bridge is strategic for the flow of agricultural and industrial cargo, especially via BR-010, one of the most important routes in the North-Northeast region.
