Brazilian Congress Approves Controversial Bill to Pave Amazon Highway

Environmentalists warn of potential surge in deforestation, while supporters argue for improved connectivity between Amazonas and Rondonia states.

Brazil's lower house of Congress has passed a bill to use conservation funds, including the $1.3 billion Amazon Fund, to finance the re-paving of a highway through the Amazon rainforest.
The highway, first built in the 1970s, has fallen into disrepair and is often impassable during the rainy season.
Environmental experts warn that the project could lead to a surge in deforestation in Amazonas state, home to some of the most well-preserved parts of the rainforest.
Every major highway project in the Amazon has previously led to increased land grabbing and illegal deforestation.
Supporters argue that the highway is necessary to reduce the isolation of Amazonas and Rondonia states.