BRASILIA, Brazil (AP) — Brazilian prosecutors are investigating a consortium that is building a huge dam in the Amazon, saying the group allegedly mishandled a turtle hatchery and killed thousands of baby turtles.
Prosecutor Bruno Alexandre Gutschow tells The Associated Press that the case could add to a long list of environmental infractions allegedly committed during work on the Belo Monte dam. Once built, it will be the third-largest dam in the world.
One of the conditions imposed for the project is proper care for the turtle hatchery. It consists of several beaches on the Xingu river about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the project.
Gutschow said Tuesday that prosecutors are considering legal action against the Norte Energia consortium.
The consortium says it has rigorously followed environmental requirements.
