VIDEO: truck overturns after access road to farms and indigenous community is flooded in MT
A truck overturned on the E60 highway in northern Mato Grosso, Brazil, after heavy rains flooded the access roads to rural areas and an indigenous community.
A significant accident occurred on the E60 highway in northern Mato Grosso, Brazil, where a truck overturned due to severe flooding caused by intense rainfall. The situation has been exacerbated by the declaration of a state of emergency by the municipality of Matupá, located 696 km from Cuiabá, which is responsible for maintaining the affected roadways. This flooding has not only impacted transportation routes but also affected local schools and agricultural operations vital to the region's economy.
Footage captured by a local resident shows the truck attempting to navigate the flooded road, with water reaching up to its tires. Unfortunately, as it encountered a pothole, the vehicle began to tip over and ultimately was submerged on its side. Thankfully, the driver was able to escape through the window. The municipality has reacted by dispatching maintenance crews to address the road issues, which include placing gravel and clearing debris; however, the effectiveness of these efforts may be limited in some areas still facing severe conditions.
This incident highlights the vulnerabilities of rural transportation infrastructure in Brazil, especially during extreme weather events. The combination of inadequate road maintenance and heavy rains poses significant risks for both vehicles and local communities, particularly those living near indigenous reserves, which have unique access challenges. The ongoing situation may require further governmental intervention to ensure the safety and functionality of such essential routes for both residents and businesses in the region.