A viral social media video showed alleged cracks and erosion on a bridge over Cachoeira Sá Carvalho, between Antônio Dias and Jaguaraçu. Concessionaire Nova 381 denied structural problems and stated the highlighted piece served only during construction.
The motorist who frequently travels the BR-381 in Vale do Aço recorded points of erosion, cracks and a large hole near the base of the metallic bridge. He reported that the soil remains damp and that one piece had given way, raising concerns among highway users.
Nova 381 stated that the element shown in the video was used only as support for launching beams during construction and has no structural function. The company confirmed there is no problem with the bridge and that maintenance services are scheduled for this year.
Civil engineer Cecílio Xavier, consulted by the report, assessed that video analysis alone is inconclusive. He suggested a temporary closure for detailed inspection, although he noted the visible part may be a temporary support base.
