Introduction
The contractor Etam, under suspicion of corruption, has accumulated contracts worth $585 million on the BR-319, a highway that connects Manaus (AM) to Porto Velho (RO). The most recent contract, worth $223.5 million, was signed by the Regional Superintendence of the National Department of Infrastructure and Transportation (DNIT) in Amazonas.
The Contract and its Objectives
The contract covers the section between kilometers 513.80 and 656.40 of the BR-319, with a length of 142 kilometers. The interventions include patching potholes, cleaning drainage ditches, and immediate repairs to the road surface.
Investigations and Controversies
Etam was the target of investigations by the Federal Police for corruption. Operation Ptolomeu aimed at the administration of Gladson Cameli (PP), former governor of Acre, who resigned to run for the Senate. In May, the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) sentenced Cameli to 25 years and 9 months in prison for crimes of organized crime, active and passive corruption, embezzlement, money laundering, and fraud in bidding.
Socio-Environmental Risks
The socio-environmental, health, and humanitarian risks associated with the paving of the highway were mentioned in a letter delivered by researchers from 14 Brazilian and international institutions to the Vatican. The document also drew attention to the threats of potassium mining in Autazes (AM) and the weakening of environmental licensing in Brazil.
Conclusion
The accumulation of contracts by Etam on the BR-319 raises questions about the transparency and integrity of the bidding process. Furthermore, the socio-environmental risks associated with the paving of the highway must be carefully considered to avoid irreparable damage to the region.
Source / Reference
Original URL: https://climainfo.org.br/2026/06/25/construtora-sob-suspeita-acumula-contratos-de-r-585-milhoes-na-br-319/