The Engineer Gentil Forn Road, a crucial route to the Cidade Alta in Juiz de Fora, Brazil, has been completely blocked since February 23 due to extensive damage caused by heavy rains that resulted in the deaths of 65 people. The closure was implemented as a safety measure to prevent further landslides, with experts warning that unstable slopes and the weight of vehicles could trigger more soil slipping incidents.

Currently, efforts are focused on assessing the severity of the damage and determining viable engineering solutions for the road. Specialists indicate that the presence of rocks contributes to a very thin layer of soil, and when this layer becomes saturated, its increased weight may cause it to collapse, exacerbating the risk of further landslides. As such, careful evaluation and planning are crucial before any reconstruction can commence.

As of now, there is no estimate available for the reconstruction costs or a timeline for when the repair works will begin. The situation highlights the challenges local authorities face in addressing infrastructure damage related to severe weather events, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and preventive measures to protect both the roadway and the surrounding community.