Water Quality Concerns Hit São Luís, Brazil: 13 Beaches Unfit for Swimming
In a recent report released by the Secretariat of Environment of Maranhão, Brazil, 13 out of 21 beaches in the metropolitan area of São Luís have been deemed unsuitable for swimming. The data, collected between June 17th and July 15th, 2018, is relevant for the summer vacation period. This alarming situation highlights the need for immediate attention and action to ensure the safety of beachgoers.
A Growing Concern: Beach Pollution
The beaches of Ponta d’Areia and Calhau in São Luís have been found to be contaminated, making them off-limits for swimming. Conversely, a section of the São Marcos beach was considered safe, despite a visible sewage pipe discharging waste onto the beach. This stark contrast underscores the urgent need for proper waste management and beach cleaning.
Personal Stories: The Human Impact
For local residents, the consequences of beach pollution are all too real. Elaine da Silva, a mother, recounted her daughter’s experience with skin irritation after playing in the contaminated waters. “My daughter would play on the beach, and after a while, she would start to itch and become red. I would immediately take her away from the water,” she said. Meanwhile, Ádria Morares, a hairstylist from Santa Inês, chose to ignore the risks and brought her children to the beach, despite knowing the potential consequences.
The Health Risks: Expert Insights
Dermatologist Leonardo Maciel emphasized that water pollution poses significant health risks, particularly gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and intestinal infections. He also warned about the risk of geohelminthiasis, a parasitic infection caused by contact with contaminated soil or sand. Children, who often play in the sand, are particularly vulnerable to this risk.
The Long-Term Consequences: A Call to Action
The release of the report serves as a wake-up call for the authorities to take immediate action to address the water pollution issue. The beaches of São Luís, a popular tourist destination, require urgent attention to ensure the safety of visitors and residents alike. The situation highlights the need for a comprehensive plan to improve waste management, increase beach cleaning, and monitor water quality.
The List: Beaches with Poor Water Quality
The report lists the following beaches as being unsuitable for swimming:
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (behind Hotel Praia Mar)
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (behind Bar do Dodô)
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (in front of Praça de Apoio ao Banhista)
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (in front of Edifício Herbene Regadas)
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (in front of Hotel Brisa Mar)
* Praia da Ponta D’areia (beside Forte Santo Antonio)
* Praia de São Marcos (Foz do Rio Calhau)
* Praia de São Marcos (in front of IPEM and Bar Kalamazoo)
* Praia do Calhau (to the right of Elevatória II da CAEMA)
* Praia do Calhau (in front of Pousada Tambaú)
* Praia do Calhau (in front of Bar Malibu)
* Praia do Olho d’Água (to the right of Elevatória Pimenta I)
* Praia do Olho d’Água (to the right of Elevatória Iemanjá II)
In contrast, the following beaches were found to have suitable water quality:
* Praia de São Marcos (in front of Barraca da Marcela)
* Praia de São Marcos (in front of Bares Do Chef and Marlene’s)
* Praia de São Marcos (in front of Agrupamento Batalhão do Mar)
* Praia do Meio (in front of Bar do Capiau)
* Praia do Meio (in front of Bar da Praia)
* Praia do Araçagy (in front of Bar Novo Point)
* Praia do Araçagy (in front of Bar do Isaac)
* Praia do Araçagy (in front of Fatima’s Bar)
The situation in São Luís serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing water quality and beach cleanliness. It is essential for the authorities to take immediate action to address the issue and ensure the safety of beachgoers.