After more than 25 years of anticipation, the modernization and expansion works of the Manaus Moderna Waterway Terminal are finally underway. This Thursday (22), the Minister of Ports and Airports, Tomé Franca, participated in the driving of the first pile, marking the beginning of a new phase for the fluvial transport infrastructure of the Amazonian capital.
The project, which involves the installation of 1,400 piles to support a platform with an area of 40,000 square meters, aims to transform one of Manaus' main waterway connection points, offering better service conditions to the population that depends on rivers to travel between the capital and other municipalities in Amazonas. The project also includes a playground, air-conditioned environments in the waiting and passenger service areas, a parking lot with a roof equipped with photovoltaic panels for solar energy generation, as well as support points and living areas with concrete benches.
For Tomé Franca, the interventions will increase accessibility and ensure more comfort and dignity for terminal users, with the implementation of new access points to the structure. "It is very good when we have a political decision to do the project, allocate the resources, issue the service order, and today, be here to transform the lives of the people who use this port," said the minister.
The modernization of the terminal has a direct impact on regional mobility. In a state of great distances where rivers are essential transport routes, the structure is important for both passenger movement and cargo circulation. The requalification aims to improve the organization of operations and increase accessibility, contributing so that people with disabilities and reduced mobility can also use the space with more autonomy and safety.
The project also includes structures and services aimed at the needs of users, including a basic health unit (UBS), a bicycle rack, solar energy, and sewage treatment, according to the Director of Waterway Infrastructure of the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (Dnit), Edme Filho.
For him, the start of the works represents an advance for the integration of the North Region. "The terminal will not only benefit Amazonas but also states like Acre, Roraima, and Rondônia, reinforcing the importance of waterway infrastructure for the connection between different localities. The port of Manaus Moderna ceases to be equipment to become a work, the heart of the North of this country," highlighted the director.
The works are expected to be completed in 24 months. With the new structure, the expectation is to offer better service conditions to passengers and strengthen waterway operations in a region where fluvial transport is indispensable for daily life and economic activity.
"We hope to deliver to the people of Amazonas and the entire North Region a Manaus Moderna Port fully prepared to serve the population. This is a priority of President Lula's government," added Tomé Franca.
Agendas in Amazonas
In addition to monitoring the start of works at the Manaus Moderna Waterway Terminal in Manaus, the Minister of Ports and Airports, Tomé Franca, visited the Juruá Shipyard in Iranduba, to monitor the facilities and activities developed by the naval enterprise.
