The relentless rain hammered Morro do Sereno. It wasn’t just rain it was a deluge a furious assault on the steep slopes.
Morro do Sereno a community nestled within Rio de Janeiro’s sprawling Complexo da Penha. It’s a place of breathtaking views from its highest points offering a panoramic vista of the Baixada Fluminense and the mountain range culminating in Dedo de Deus. But this beauty masks a harsh reality for its residents.
Thelma de Oliveira a 65-year-old lifelong resident knows this reality well. Her wooden house has been damaged by landslides caused by the very rains that threaten her. The broken concrete steps in front of her gate are a constant struggle for her. She only leaves home when absolutely necessary. The heavy rains fill her with fear. She recalls a small addition to her house collapsing onto her main dwelling. She had to hire someone to repair the damage.
Higher up Alexandre and his pregnant wife Joice face different yet equally formidable challenges. Their daily climb to their home is arduous especially with groceries. They’ve even carried mattresses and sofas uphill. Their community spirit is remarkable. They help each other. They appreciate the local clinic providing healthcare support. But the municipal government’s assistance is lacking. Waste disposal is a major problem. In heavy rain they work together clearing drainage. They’ve had near misses with landslides but are determined to rebuild their house with better conditions.
The city’s Geo-Rio has inspected Morro do Sereno. A project with funding is underway. A tender process will eventually follow. But for now life on Morro do Sereno continues a struggle against nature and neglect a battle fought with resilience and community spirit. The rain continues to fall a constant reminder of the precarious beauty of this remarkable place.