Post Reports Death in the rainforest
Mar 21, 2022
Terry McCoy, the Washington Post's Rio de Janeiro bureau chief, and Raphael Alves, a freelance photographer, delve into the chilling realities of deforestation along Brazil's BR-319 highway. They discuss the clash between the need for infrastructure and the catastrophic environmental risks that come with it. The duo uncovers the violent operations of criminal groups exploiting the region, revealing connections to illegal activities and the shocking disappearance of a key witness. Their journey paints a stark picture of a rainforest on the brink of collapse.
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Highway Dilemma
- BR-319, a highway slicing through the Amazon, faces disrepair but rebuilding efforts exist.
- Repaving would ease transport but also accelerate deforestation, posing a dilemma.
Journey into the Amazon
- Terry McCoy, Rafael Alves, and scientist Lucas Ferranti journeyed along BR-319.
- They documented illegal deforestation to show the road's environmental cost.
Lawless Frontier
- Armed criminal groups control stretches of BR-319, creating a dangerous environment.
- The lack of law enforcement makes it risky, with frequent disappearances.