Brazil’s Crucial Riverways Face Drought Recovery
Brazilian grain and fertilizer shipments are still facing potential disruptions due to low water levels in key waterways, although recent rainfall has provided a glimmer of hope. The ongoing drought, the worst in Brazil’s history, has significantly impacted inland navigation. However, river levels are gradually recovering this week, offering a temporary respite.
Madeira Waterway: Short-Lived Relief
The Madeira waterway, connecting Porto Velho in Rondonia state to Itacoatiara in Amazonas state, is the second largest in the northern region. Itacoatiara is anticipated to receive approximately 70,634 metric tonnes of fertilizers in October, according to shipping agency Unimar.
Despite a rise in water depth at Porto Velho to 91cm on October 23rd, from 46cm on October 18th, navigation remains suspended at the port. This suspension was implemented by the state’s ports and waterways authority SOPH on September 23rd due to the Madeira River reaching its lowest level since monitoring began in 1967.
Amazon Waterway: Heavy Reliance, Uncertain Future
The Amazon River, the primary waterway in northern Brazil responsible for handling approximately 65% of the region’s cargo, links Manaus in Amazonas state to Belem in Para state.
Tapajos Waterway: Dire Situation
The Tapajos waterway is crucial for moving products from northern Mato Grosso state to Santarem port in Para state, with Santarem expecting 130,234 metric tonnes of fertilizers in October, according to Unimar.
However, the Tapajos-Teles Pires waterway is facing a severe water shortage. The National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA) declared a shortage on the Tapajos River on September 23rd. Unusually dry weather has significantly reduced river levels, particularly between Itaituba and Santarem (Para state), to levels below the historical minimum.
At the Santarem monitoring point, the Tapajos River level stood at 27cm, considered extremely low. The level has dipped slightly from 28cm on October 18th. The historical minimum for this location is -55cm below the port’s reference point. **While a level below zero does not necessarily mean the river is dry**, it indicates critically low conditions.
Tocantins-Araguaia Waterway: Navigational Lifeline
The Tocantins-Araguaia waterway encompasses the Araguaia and Tocantins rivers, connecting Barra do Garcas in Mato Grosso to Vila do Conde in Para state. Soybeans, corn, fertilizers, fuels, mineral oils, and derivative products are transported along these vital northern waterways. Vila do Conde is slated to receive 245,500 metric tonnes of fertilizers in October, according to Unimar.
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