Barragem Maravilhas III: An Update on January 2025 Safety and Progress
Located in Nova Lima, in the state of Minas Gerais, the Barragem Maravilhas III is an essential structure in Brazil’s mining sector, primarily used for the storage of tailings. As of January 2025, the dam remains in a stable condition, continuing to perform in line with safety standards and regulatory requirements. The latest update, as per the Geotechnical Performance Assessment Report, shows no alarming issues, reinforcing confidence in its safety and operational continuity.
This update underscores the dam’s robust monitoring system and detailed geotechnical assessments, which have ensured that the Barragem Maravilhas III operates within the anticipated safety parameters. The Geotechnical Engineer's report indicates that geotechnical instruments monitoring the dam's condition are functioning effectively, with stability safety factors meeting the minimum standards required by Brazilian legislation.
Current State of Construction and Monitoring
While the dam's structural integrity remains stable, work on the second phase of its embankment construction is currently on hold due to the ongoing rainy season, a condition that affects construction timelines in the region. The construction pause is expected to last until April 2025, after which work on the embankment will resume, following the planned phases of the project.
However, despite the temporary suspension of the embankment works, essential preparatory activities are still underway. This includes the mobilization of equipment and teams for tasks related to the improvement of access roads, surface drainage systems, and the installation of instruments for the next phase of construction. These efforts are part of a comprehensive project to ensure the dam’s stability in the long term and align with ongoing monitoring needs.
The Barragem Maravilhas III continues to be under strict surveillance by the Geotechnical Monitoring Center (CMG), a dedicated facility ensuring 24/7 remote monitoring of the dam’s performance. This real-time monitoring system ensures that any changes in the dam's structure or behavior are immediately detected and addressed, ensuring optimal safety at all times.
Positive Stability Declaration (DCE) and Continuous Safety Measures
An important safety milestone for Barragem Maravilhas III is the positive Declaration of Stability (DCE). This declaration affirms that the dam is not in an alert or emergency situation and is performing within acceptable safety margins. Additionally, the dam is continuously monitored by the competent regulatory bodies, ensuring that it adheres to all environmental and safety regulations stipulated by Brazilian authorities.
The combination of geotechnical instruments, remote monitoring systems, and the ongoing presence of regulatory bodies is key to maintaining the dam’s stability. These factors contribute to minimizing risks and ensuring that the Barragem continues to operate safely and efficiently, with regular inspections and updates.
Looking Ahead: Resumption of Works and Ongoing Commitment to Safety
Although the construction of the second phase of the dam’s embankment has been temporarily delayed, Barragem Maravilhas III remains an integral part of Brazil's infrastructure. Its continuous monitoring, alongside a structured plan to resume construction by April 2025, highlights the commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility. As the project moves into its next phases, ensuring the dam’s long-term stability will remain a top priority for all parties involved.
This steady progress and unwavering focus on safety serve as a testament to the ongoing efforts to maintain and improve Brazil’s mining infrastructure and to ensure that environmental and structural standards are always upheld.
Key Takeaways:
• The Barragem Maravilhas III remains stable as of January 2025, with geotechnical instruments performing as expected.
• Phase two of the embankment construction is temporarily on hold due to the rainy season, with work expected to resume in April 2025.
• The dam’s stability has been affirmed with a positive Declaration of Stability (DCE), ensuring no emergency or alert status.
• The Geotechnical Monitoring Center (CMG) provides 24/7 remote monitoring, overseeing the dam's performance and ensuring continuous safety.
• Despite the construction pause, preparatory activities, such as drainage improvements and instrument installation, continue.
• The dam is regularly monitored by regulatory bodies, ensuring compliance with Brazilian safety and environmental standards.
