Heritage institute approves continuation of São Paulo subway works

Brazil's historic and artistic heritage institute (Iphan) authorized the restart of works on a key site of São Paulo's 17bn-real (US$2.95bn) subway line No. 6, which is one of Latin America's largest infrastructure projects under construction.

The 15.3km line will have 15 stations. Works should conclude in 2027 and are being carried out under a PPP contract with consortium Linha Universidade, formed by Acciona and Société Générale. Development bank BNDES is providing 12.3bn reais of the investment.

Specifically, Iphan authorized Linha Universidade to resume construction of the 14 Bis-Saracura station in the city center, a spokesperson told BNamericas.

Excavation was partially halted in May 2023 after the discovery of 4,000 pieces that belonged to the Saracura Quilombo people, who lived in the area in the 19th century.

Iphan archaeologists assessed the site to determine mitigation measures and preserve the materials. They recommended the subway operator showcase the materials to passengers in the future station.

While the assessment was underway, officials had considered canceling the station to avoid delays affecting the entire line.