Vale Initiates Rio Tanque Water Supply Project to Secure Itabira’s Future
On March 20, 2025, Vale, in collaboration with Itabira’s City Hall and the Water and Sewage Utility, kicked off the monumental Rio Tanque Project, a game-changing development aimed at expanding water availability in the region. The ceremonial laying of the first stone marked the start of construction on a modern water system designed to meet the city’s future needs.
A Boost to Itabira’s Water Security
The Rio Tanque Project will install a new water intake system and a Water Treatment Plant, which will be capable of providing 600 liters per second of water. This volume is well above the city’s current demand of 400 l/s, ensuring that the growing population and economic activities are supported sustainably for years to come.
• Targeted Beneficiaries: Approximately 113,000 residents of Itabira will directly benefit from the improved water supply, which will provide potable water for both residential and industrial purposes. The project is also designed to ensure the region’s capacity to host new businesses, thus facilitating sustainable growth in the area.
According to Diogo Monteiro, director of Vale’s Itabira Operational Complex, this initiative represents Vale's commitment to the water security of the municipality and will serve as a vital legacy for the community, aiding its development in the coming decades.
Integration with Itabira’s Environmental Plan
The Rio Tanque Project is an integral part of the company’s broader Environmental Master Plan, which aims to improve environmental control and water management in Vale’s operations in the area. The project also aligns with Itabira Sustentável, an initiative focused on building a self-sufficient, sustainable city capable of attracting investment and creating jobs.
Glauco Gonçalves, manager of the PDA at Vale’s Itabira Complex, emphasized that the Rio Tanque Project would work in tandem with other ongoing environmental programs, ensuring comprehensive, long-term sustainability for both the community and the company’s operations.
Key Infrastructure and Construction Plans
The project includes the installation of crucial infrastructure, such as:
• A 25-kilometer pipeline to transport water from the Rio Tanque river to the new Water Treatment Plant.
• Three water pumping stations to ensure smooth transportation of water from the source to the treatment facilities.
• A directional feed tank and a transition chamber, ensuring efficient water flow and system integrity.
The modern system will also feature real-time monitoring for water flow, water quality, and equipment performance, making it a highly automated and technologically advanced solution for water supply management.
Economic Impact and Employment Generation
Vale’s investment in the Rio Tanque Project is approximately R$ 1.17 billion, underscoring the company’s dedication to supporting the local economy and fostering sustainable growth. The project is expected to generate up to 1,200 jobs during peak construction periods, with a strong focus on hiring local labor. The vacancies will be made available through the National Employment System, SINE, in Itabira, ensuring that the local workforce has access to opportunities created by the project.
In addition, over 30 local suppliers have already been contracted to provide materials and services related to the construction and operation of the water system. This collaboration with regional businesses ensures that the benefits of the project will be distributed throughout the local economy.
Post-Project Management
Upon completion, the SAAE will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the new system. Vale has also made agreements with the Ministry of Public Affairs of Minas Gerais, the municipality of Itabira, and the SAAE to ensure continued collaboration and oversight during the project’s execution.
Until the new system is fully operational, Vale will continue supplying 160 liters per second of water to ensure that the local community has adequate access to water. This temporary supply will cover the needs of the Hydraulic Ring and the Areão and Rio de Peixe Treatment Stations, which were agreed upon with local authorities.
Key Takeaways:
• Vale has launched the Rio Tanque Project, aimed at expanding the water supply in Itabira, Brazil, with a capacity to provide 600 liters per second of water, exceeding the city’s current demand of 400 liters per second.
• The project will benefit approximately 113,000 residents of Itabira and ensure future water availability for new businesses and regional growth.
• The Rio Tanque Project is part of Vale’s broader commitment to water security and aligns with the Environmental Master Plan and the Itabira Sustentável program, which promote sustainable development.
• The project involves the construction of a 25-kilometer pipeline, three water pumping stations, a directional feed tank, and a Water Treatment Plant.
• Vale’s investment in the project totals R$ 1.17 billion, which is expected to generate 1,200 jobs during peak construction, with a focus on hiring local workers.
• Over 30 local suppliers have been contracted to assist in the construction and operation of the project, further benefiting the region’s economy.
• Upon completion, the SAAE will take over the management and operation of the new water system, ensuring its continued effectiveness and sustainability.
• Until the new system is fully operational, Vale will continue to provide 160 liters per second of water to meet the city’s needs, as per the agreement with local authorities.
