Paraguay River reaches critically low levels, threatening trade and livelihoods: Video
The Paraguay River, one of South America’s main waterways, has reached critically low levels, alarming cargo transport operators and fishing communities who depend on it for their livelihoods.
In recent months, water levels at the Port of Formosa have dropped to just 1.79 metres (six feet), around three metres below the optimal level.
The sharp decline has left boats stranded and large stretches of riverbed exposed, revealing piles of rubbish along the banks. Local fishermen report that the river continues to fall by five to seven centimetres each day. “In other years it dropped, but very little,” said one fisherman to Viory, “now it’s impressive how the river keeps dropping.”
Transport workers warn that the situation is crippling river-based commerce. Low water levels have forced the Naval Prefecture to impose restrictions on cargo capacity between Vallemí and Concepción, as navigation becomes increasingly difficult. Despite recent rainfall, local media report that the drought persists in the key areas feeding the river’s flow — a sign, experts say, of the growing vulnerability of South America’s water systems amid changing climate patterns.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
