Advances in the BR-163: a key investment for development and security in Mato Grosso.

During an interview with the national site Poder360, the president of the Federal Court of Accounts (TCU), Bruno Dantas, emphasized the importance of the recent transfer of corporate control of Rota do Oeste to MT Par, highlighting that this decision has been crucial in preventing stagnation in Brazil's development. Rota do Oeste is responsible for managing BR-163, a vital highway that runs through the state of Mato Grosso and plays a fundamental role in the logistics of Brazilian agribusiness. Dantas stressed that the initiative was considered bold at the time, but now it presents itself as a significant advancement for the country. This collaborative effort, which involved the Government of Mato Grosso and various entities such as the Secretariats of Finance and Infrastructure, as well as the TCU and the National Land Transport Agency (ANTT), allowed for a redirection of the path of this highway, which had been criticized for its deteriorated state and the dangerous situations it created. Mato Grosso's governor, Mauro Mendes, was instrumental in this management. His negotiation proposal to renegotiate the federal highway and convert it to a state road has resulted in a series of interventions that have begun to transform BR-163. "This highway was not only known for its transportation problems but also as a vector of accidents and deaths," Dantas stated, adding that efforts are underway to complete the works efficiently. The history of BR-163 is marked by its importance in transporting agricultural products, making it a backbone of the local and national economy. However, the deterioration of the infrastructure had created an environment of risk and delays in the transportation of goods. "The goal is to deliver the duplication and recovery of the highway in a reasonable time, although the lack of labor has complicated this process," Dantas commented. Mendes, for his part, recalled the years spent seeking a viable alternative to improve the highway. After several attempts to collaborate with the private sector and facing legal complexities, the solution finally emerged through the concession, which involved an investment of R$ 1.6 billion. "This is a project that is worth every penny invested," emphasized the governor, highlighting the positive impact it will have on driver safety and the economic development of the region. Since the start of the concession, the State Government has delivered the first 15 kilometers of duplication, an advancement that has led to an 86% reduction in deaths on the highway. This figure underscores the urgency and need to address infrastructure issues in the country, especially on such critical routes for the economy. Progress on the project is highlighted by Nova Rota do Oeste, which currently operates on four work fronts. These include the duplication of the Rodovia dos Imigrantes over a significant stretch, the resumption of duplication in other segments, and the upgrading of the existing road in Sinop, where the construction of several viaducts is planned. These projects testify to the authorities' commitment to modernizing infrastructure and ensuring road safety. The story of Rota do Oeste is a clear example of how inefficiency and lack of action can delay development. The previous administration of Odebrecht Transport had abandoned the project for seven years, leading to significant deterioration of the road. However, the Conduct Adjustment Term (TAC) signed in May 2022 has allowed MT Par to take control and resume construction. In total, investments of R$ 7.8 billion are expected for the duplication of 336 kilometers of BR-163 and the construction of several viaducts and roundabouts. This success story has not only served as a model for other regions but has also become a national reference in public infrastructure management. The collaborative approach and determination to resolve the issues associated with BR-163 exemplify how joint efforts between governments and private sectors can lead to effective solutions, driving not only road safety but also the economic development of the country. As the works progress, the hope is that Brazil can solidify its position as a leader in agribusiness and improve the quality of life for its citizens.