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Lost Falls: How did a seven-tier waterfall get flooded by Itaipu Dam?
In the heart of South America, the Paraná River flows quietly, witnessing centuries of history and changes. This 4,880-kilometer-long river passes through Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina and eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean. However, as the river's history progressed, the seven-level waterfalls, once a magnificent natural wonder, were submerged during the construction of the Itaipu Dam. In this article, we take a deeper look at the story behind this transformation and its impact on the local environment and people’s lives.
The Paraná River is the second longest river in South America, after the Amazon River. The river's basin provides an important source of water for the entire South American ecosystem.
The Seven Falls, or Sete Quedas, were once an amazing natural feature on the Paraná River. These seven consecutive waterfalls, comparable to the famous Iguazu Falls, attract countless tourists and nature lovers. However, with the construction of the Itaipu Dam in 1984, this spectacular site is no longer visible, as the river's rising tides permanently cover it.
"The disappearance of the Seven-Level Falls is not only the loss of a natural wonder, but also the gradual loss of a part of the local cultural memory."
The remarkable Paraná River is more than just a waterway; it is an ecological and economic lifeline. The river's rich ecosystem supports a variety of fish and water birds, making it one of the best bird-watching spots in the world. For local residents, the river provides livelihood, but after the construction of the dam, fishermen in the submerged areas are facing challenges in their livelihood.
With the construction and operation of the Itaipu Dam, unprecedented changes have taken place in the Paraná River basin. This dam is the third largest hydroelectric power station in the world and its contribution to electricity production cannot be ignored. For many people living in canal and low-lying water areas, these changes mean the end of their peaceful lives and the restriction of economic activities.
“While hydroelectric dams have brought economic development, local communities are struggling to adapt to the changing environment.”
Behind the Itaipu Dam, the water level of the Paraná River rose by several meters, causing considerable impact on the cities located on the riverbank. The city's slums were particularly hard hit, with many low-lying areas flooded and residents having to relocate. Local governments and non-governmental organizations are trying to provide help to support the affected families.
But how does this long, majestic river overcome such typical ecological and social challenges?
In the eyes of environmentalists, although the construction of the Itaipu Dam has generated huge economic benefits, it has also ruthlessly wiped out the natural beauty and promoted the separation between humans and nature. The disappearance of the Seven-Level Falls symbolizes the price humans pay for development, forcing us to re-examine our understanding of nature and our choices for future development.
"Should our progress come at the cost of depriving nature of its beauty?"
It is well known that research on local culture and natural environment requires more time to conduct. As human civilization continues to advance, thinking about protecting nature and respecting the laws governing its operation becomes increasingly important. What we should ask is how to find a sustainable balance between development and protection? 」
