Macrodrenage work of the Leal Martins Canal in Belém reaches final phase
The initiative is part of the Tucunduba Basin macrodrenage project and is another legacy of COP30, providing significant improvements in the quality of life of the population.
Through the State Secretariat for Public Works (Seop), the Government of Pará has reached the final stage of the work carried out on the José Leal Martins Passage Canal, located in the Marco neighborhood of Belém. The initiative, which is part of the Tucunduba Basin macrodrenage project, is another legacy of the United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP30) and provides significant improvements in the quality of life of the population.
“We have reached the final stretch of work to deliver another important project for the people of Belém. After the Timbó and Cipriano Santos canals and the first stage of the Gentil Canal, the State is advancing in another investment that is a result of the COP30 held in our capital. The completion of the Leal Martins Canal represents more infrastructure, quality of life, mobility, and dignity for the residents of the Marco neighborhood,” highlights the Secretary of Public Works, Ruy Cabral.
At Leal Martins, 143 meters of canal are being completed, integrating a set of services that will directly benefit the local population. The project includes the rectification of the canal along its entire length, as well as the execution of asphalt paving, also covering the adjacent streets.
In addition, the area has received the installation of new water supply networks, sewage systems, and storm drainage, all extended to the surrounding streets. The project also includes the construction of a bridge, a footbridge, the urbanization of the region's roadways, and the filling of backyards located near the canal.
Chef Edson Ribeiro shares that he has lived on the José Leal Martins Passage for 15 years and had never seen any movement for the improvement of the area. “It was dirty, full of trash, and very chaotic. The houses were flooded by the canal water, which reached our knees. As a result, we lost some furniture.”
The resident emphasizes that he faced difficulties in having leisure and safety. “The only way to take my son out for a walk was to go to another street, and it had to be early. It was very dangerous to walk around here. What Governor Helder Barbalho is doing for us, no one has ever done. Today, there’s no more walking and stepping in water, avoiding mud, or having to take my son to another street to ride a bike. Now even the garbage truck can enter the street. Living here today is a source of pride because we are being valued,” said Edson Ribeiro.
The work on the Leal Martins Canal includes the macrodrenage of three other canals that are part of the Marco neighborhood: Vileta, which is also in the final stages of work; União, with ongoing work; and Timbó, delivered by the State in January.
Historic investment – The State Government, through the largest macrodrenage program in the history of Belém, is advancing in a series of urban requalification works on the capital's canals, aiming to prevent flooding and improve the quality of life for more than 500,000 people. The interventions include the Tucunduba, Murutucu, Tamandaré, and Una Basins.
Since 2019, the State has invested in the requalification of 17 canals in the capital of Pará, of which 13 are considered legacies of COP30. Among the completed works are the Timbó, Cipriano Santos canals, and the first stage of the Gentil Bittencourt Canal.
