Impactos da vazante no Paraná do Ramos na Agrovila Santo Antônio da Maloca, município de Barreirinha-Am

Abstract

This study analyzed the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of the low water level in the Paraná do Ramos on the daily life of the Santo Antônio da Maloca agricultural village, located in the municipality of Barreirinha, Amazonas. Seasonal dynamics of the Amazon basin, marked by periods of flood and low water levels, are a determining factor for the lives of riverside communities. The research used a qualitative approach, with data collection through semi-structured interviews, systematic observation, and photographic records, in addition to the analysis of the results using the triangulation technique. The data were obtained from the narratives of 7 students, 16 residents, and 3 merchants of the agricultural village. The results, triangulated with field observations, confirmed that the low water period intensely and negatively impacts the local routine. The main challenge identified is the limitation in movement and access to basic services. The sharp drop in water levels prevents navigation through the access channels, isolating the agricultural village and forcing residents to adopt precarious land routes. This difficulty affects education, with students facing long walks on difficult terrain to access school transport, and commerce, where the change in routes of vessels from Manaus increases freight costs, making essential products more expensive. The alternative means of transport identified are motorcycles and cargo tricycles (motocar). The research did not identify structured benefits that compensate for the losses caused by the low water levels. The study concludes that the strong dependence on the river exposes the agricultural village to high vulnerability during the low water season, reinforcing the urgent need for effective public policies to support mobility, supply logistics, and school safety.