Lula Signs R$ 10 Billion Concession for 'Rodovia da Morte' in Minas Gerais, Aiming to Benefit 4 Million and Create 83,500 Jobs

Jan 22, 2025, 02:12 PM

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has signed a concession contract for the BR-381 highway in Minas Gerais, known as the 'rodovia da morte' due to its high accident rate. The concession, which spans 303.4 kilometers from Belo Horizonte to Governador Valadares, will be managed by Concessionária Nova 381, a subsidiary of 4UM Investimentos. The project, set to last 30 years, involves an investment of R$ 10 billion, with R$ 9 billion allocated specifically for infrastructure improvements over the 30-year period. The initiative is aimed at enhancing infrastructure, safety, and traffic flow, expected to benefit 4 million people and create 83,500 direct and indirect jobs. The plan includes 51 changes to the highway's layout, with 106 kilometers of duplication, 83 kilometers of additional lanes, and various safety enhancements such as escape areas, rest stops for truck drivers, and pedestrian overpasses.