Minas Gerais: investments in roads can encourage tourism in the state

The roads between São Sebastião do Paraíso – MG and Três Corações – MG are undergoing changes, such as improvements in the road network, which facilitates access to cities recognized as important tourist destinations. The Varginha-Furnas stretch was auctioned last Thursday (25th) at the São Paulo Stock Exchange (B3), which guaranteed investments of R$ 2.6 billion in the region.

According to Guidi Nunes, economist and financial director of the Brazilian Cooperative of Business Services, tourism is an industry that adds value. “So if you have, in addition to the development plan for the tourism sector in Minas Gerais, plans for the local development of these municipalities, that is, investments with an integration perspective, which connect with other investments and sector planning, it helps a lot”, he emphasizes.

The works are being carried out by the State Secretariat for Infrastructure and Mobility (Seinfra) with the support of the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) and will directly impact the tourist flow of the 22 municipalities crossed by the highways.

According to the government of Minas, in the region of Lago de Furnas, also known as Mar de Minas, Capitólio stands out, which has everything to receive more tourists with restored roads. The municipality is one of the 31 cities bathed by the artificial lake. Tourism activity represents 63% of the city’s economy, which according to IBGE data recorded a GDP of R$ 286,279.18 in 2020.

The concession concluded after the auction will inject resources to increase safety and comfort on the roads, with the inclusion of services such as mechanical assistance, medical care, firefighting and apprehension of animals. The expectation is that drivers will feel more comfortable to take the road, which should stimulate tourist movement in the South of Minas.

The economist points out that the local and regional development plan in Minas Gerais, connected to the sectoral development plan for the tourism sector, is essential to boost public investments.