Vale updates on the suspension of freight services on the Belo Horizonte branch line

As a precautionary measure, Vale has suspended the transport of freight on the Belo Horizonte branch line between Sabará and Barão de Cocais, which is operated by the Vitória-Minas Railroad (EFVM). The company is evaluating alternatives to minimize impacts.

The trains operate in the vicinity of the Gongo Soco mine pit, in Barão de Cocais, Minas Gerais, where recent movements were identified on the northern slope of the structure. The measure is a requirement by the National Mining Agency (ANM), who strives for people’s safety and the suspension will remain in place until Vale has carried out further risk analysis. The pit and dam are monitored 24 hours a day.

The passenger train that operates on the same line, has been suspended since Thursday (16/05), also for an indefinite period. Buses, leased by the company, are replacing trains operating in both directions between Belo Horizonte and the Dois Irmãos Train Station in Barão de Cocais.