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The implementation of the mitigation plan, developed by ViaFAUNA, a company hired by the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (DNIT) for technical consultancy, has been approved. The plan also involved the collaboration of the Wildlife Conservation Institute (ICAS), which has been active on BR-262 since 2013 through the Bandeiras & Highways Project.
The initiative aims to significantly reduce the impacts of vehicle collisions, offering greater protection for animals and safety for users of BR-262. Among the proven-effective measures, the plan proposes fencing off strategic sections of the road and adapting or installing wildlife passages at so-called "hotspots" — areas with a higher risk of animal crossings.
Native species along the roads, some of which are endangered, are particularly vulnerable to collisions, posing risks not only to wildlife preservation but also to human life.
With the approval now published, the next phase involves the launch of specific tenders by DNIT for the installation of the structures. Specialized companies will compete to carry out the services, and the expectation is that the work will begin as soon as the contracts are signed.
The local community and road users also play a crucial role in the success of the plan.
The approval of the Mitigation Plan represents a significant milestone for wildlife protection and road safety in the Pantanal, signaling progress in the responsible management of highways, integrating science and environmental conservation into infrastructure projects. With the execution of the works, the initiative is expected to become a model for other highways crossing areas of significance for biodiversity.