BR-365 Safety Enhanced for Nossa Senhora da Abadia Pilgrimage
Preparations are underway for the annual Festa de Nossa Senhora da Abadia pilgrimage to Romaria, with enhanced safety measures planned for the BR-365 highway. The concessionaire EPR Triângulo and the Federal Highway Police (PRF) are collaborating to ensure the safety of the faithful traveling to the municipality. The "Romeirovia," or "Road of Faith," will again serve as a support route for pilgrims, a path taken by approximately 150,000 people on foot, bicycle, or horseback in 2025. EPR Triângulo will improve signage along the route and distribute over 6,000 reflective vests to increase pilgrim visibility. The route has been designed to keep pilgrims off the main highway whenever feasible, prioritizing shaded areas for thermal comfort and safety, according to EPR President Diogo Santiago. Nineteen support tents will be established along the route, with nearby parking areas. Marked U-turns will be implemented to facilitate support vehicle access and minimize dangerous highway crossings. The PRF, led by Inspector Felipe Saad, has begun user orientation and will implement special signage between Uberlândia and the Araguari River bridge starting July 30. During peak pilgrimage times, the third lane of the BR-365 will be closed in this section to bolster pilgrim safety, in coordination with the Minas Gerais Highway Department (DER-MG) and EPR Triângulo. Pilgrims are advised by the PRF to use the Romeirovia, wear reflective vests, stay on marked paths, avoid unauthorized crossings, and remain highly attentive, especially during nighttime and early mornings.
The collaborative safety initiative for the BR-365 pilgrimage highlights a proactive approach to managing large-scale public events that utilize critical infrastructure. By designating specific routes, enhancing visibility with reflective gear, and managing traffic flow, organizers aim to mitigate risks inherent in combining vehicular and pedestrian/cyclist traffic. This strategy reflects an understanding of the growing number of pilgrims and the need for systemic safety protocols. Looking ahead, the integration of technology for real-time monitoring and communication could further optimize such operations, ensuring both the spiritual experience and the physical well-being of participants in the face of increasing travel volumes.
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