In a recent interview, the Mayor of Natal, Paulinho Freire, confessed to complications regarding a pump in the Jardim Primavera area that resulted in severe flooding, displacing around 160 families. The flooding occurred after intense rainfall in the city, raising concerns about the maintenance and readiness of infrastructure in the region. Freire highlighted that a fuel shortage in the pump's generator exacerbated the situation, leading to the lagoon's overflow instead of proper drainage.

Mayor Freire emphasized that it was unacceptable for the emergency generators to lack fuel, especially during a crisis that placed citizens in distress. He criticized the company responsible for maintaining the generators, stating that their failure to provide consistent fuel supply added to the already dire circumstances faced by residents. Additionally, he acknowledged delays in the repair of a crater nearby which contributed to the worsening conditions during the rain, further illustrating the infrastructural challenges faced by the municipality.

This incident underscores the pressing need for improved monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure to prevent future disasters in urban areas susceptible to heavy rainfall. The situation has raised questions among the public about the city's preparedness for emergencies and the government's accountability in safeguarding the welfare of its inhabitants. As the municipality responds to the current crisis, the community remains concerned about future vulnerabilities to flooding.