September 12, 2023

11:09

Jefferson Ramos – From Cenarium Amazon Agency

MANAUS (AM) – Despite a recommendation from the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office (MPF), Eneva has concluded the public hearings required for the environmental licensing of the expansion of the Azulão thermoelectric complex, in the municipalities of Silves and Itapiranga, Amazonas countryside.

The hearings were held on September 2 and 3 to present the Environmental Impact Study and Environmental Impact Report (EIA/Rima) for the expansion of the Azulão field, located in these two municipalities.

On September 1, the MPF recommended that the Amazonas Environmental Protection Institute (Ipaam) and the company Eneva S/A cancel the public hearings.

The recommendation pointed to the possible risk of escalating conflicts and threats against the indigenous and traditional peoples of the region, as well as the lack of information for the transparent and democratic participation of the affected population.

The Amazonas Environmental Protection Institute (Ipaam) was also the target of the recommendation when it mediated the two meetings.

When contacted by CENARIUM AMAZON AGENCY, the MPF limited itself to saying that it is analyzing the appropriate measures in relation to the case.

The project foresees the installation of a new Azulão Thermoelectric Power Plant in the Amazon Basin, 200 km from Manaus (AM), in the municipality of Silves.

According to the MPF, based on alleged irregularities pointed out by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples (MPI) and the National Foundation for Indigenous Peoples (FUNAI), the project has a potential impact on the lives of approximately 190 indigenous families and traditional communities living in the region, such as riverine and extractive populations.

The report contacted Eneva through its press office and is awaiting an official statement.