Yesterday, our Global COO, Alicia Alinia, visited the Pataxós Indigenous Community in Minas Gerais, Brazil, to meet those affected by the Mariana dam disaster in 2015 and deliver essential medical supplies following recent flooding.
The Pataxós community were abandoned by BHP, the world’s largest mining company, following the Mariana dam disaster.
The disaster sent 40 million cubic metres of toxic waste rushing into the Doce River, devastating the surrounding environment for 400 miles. The river was not just a lifeline providing a clean water supply and offering a means of income via fishing; it was a sacred part of this community’s way of life.
Members of the community told us they were in a precarious situation due to recent flooding and said the government had failed to provide the essential medical supplies necessary to sustain their community.
Pogust Goodhead looks forward to progressing the claim against BHP in 2023 and finally securing justice for our clients.