Posted on June 15, 2026
Project to Reactivate the Varadouro Channel reignites environmental dispute in Lagamar, Atlantic Forest area between Paraná and São Paulo, as public agencies, caiçara communities, and environmentalists demand broader studies on dredging, nautical tourism, and impacts on conservation units.
The Paraná government’s project to reactivate the Varadouro Channel, between Paranaguá (PR) and Cananeia (SP), has returned to the environmental debate as it plans dredging, nautical signaling, and support structures for tourism in the Lagamar area, on the southern coast of the country.
The proposal is being analyzed within the scope of the environmental licensing conducted by Ibama and faces questions from environmental agencies, the Federal Public Ministry, and traditional communities that demand studies on the effects of the intervention in the territory.
Historically used as a waterway connection, the stretch today has limited navigation due to silting and does not receive regular circulation of larger vessels, according to information presented in the public debate about the project.
According to the preliminary project released by the state government, the channel is about six kilometers long and connects Paranaguá to Cananeia, passing through the islands of Peças and Superagui, in an area of Atlantic Forest, mangroves, and conservation units.
The Paraná administration states that the initiative seeks to improve navigability, facilitate the movement of riverside communities, and stimulate community-based tourism, an argument used by the State to defend the continuation of the studies.
The Preliminary Project for Dredging, Nautical Signaling, and Tourism Support Facilities was developed by the Free University of the Environment, under contract with Paraná Projects, linked to the State Planning Secretariat.
