PUBLIC GOVERNANCE IN THE CASTANHEIRA HYDROPOWER PLANT AND TERRITORIAL ECONOMIC RECONFIGURATION: EVIDENCE FROM THE ARINOS RIVER BASIN IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF JUARA, STATE OF MATO GROSSO, BRAZILIAN AMAZON
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66104/m4j7hr26Keywords:
Public administration; Public governance; Amazon megaprojects; Territorial economy; Castanheira hydroelectric Power Plant.Abstract
This study analyzes the territorial economic impacts of large-scale hydroelectric projects in the Brazilian Amazon, focusing on public governance failures in the planning process of the Castanheira Hydroelectric Power Plant, located in the Arinos River basin (Mato Grosso State). The research adopts a qualitative approach, using a case study strategy supported by documentary analysis of independent technical reports, institutional assessments, and evidence produced by the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The findings indicate a high probability of the imposition of an exogenous development model characterized by neo-extractivism, with disruptive effects on established local productive systems, such as family farming, dairy production, and fisheries. Estimates point to a net negative socioeconomic and environmental impact exceeding BRL 589 million. Critical institutional failures are identified, including the lack of integration between planning instruments (Integrated Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Assessment), weak interinstitutional coordination, bias in social participation, and insufficient consideration of cumulative impacts. These inconsistencies contributed to decision-making processes based on fragmented and underestimated data. Conversely, social mobilization combined with robust empirical evidence functioned as a corrective mechanism, ultimately leading to the suspension of the project. The study concludes that biased public governance may facilitate dynamics of accumulation by dispossession; however, institutional arrangements grounded in evidence and effective participation enhance the capacity to mitigate socio-environmental risks. The findings reinforce the need to incorporate integrated and cumulative impact assessments as a central requirement for public policy formulation in the energy sector.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Luciano Aparecido de Oliveira , Agilson Poquiviqui , Claudionor de Oliveira Silva, Marlize Reffatti Zinelli Viezzer, Maik Jhonata Pereira dos Santos
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