Caixa Econômica Federal ordered to fix Maceió sewage crisis

A Brazilian federal court has ordered Caixa Econômica Federal to implement a permanent solution for sewage problems at the Residencial Mayra condominium in Maceió. The ruling follows a civil public action brought by the Federal Public Ministry (MPF) after residents reported years of sewage overflows, foul odors, and significant health risks.

The condominium, which consists of 240 housing units across 15 blocks, was built using resources from the Residential Leasing Fund (FAR) under the Residential Leasing Program (PAR). Investigations revealed an unfinished Sewage Treatment Station (ETE) and persistent infrastructure failures.

In addition to the mandate for repairs, the court ordered Caixa to pay R$ 1.2 million in collective moral damages. The bank has 60 days to present a detailed construction schedule and 180 days to begin works. Until a permanent solution is implemented, Caixa must use suction trucks to remove effluents to prevent overflows. Failure to comply may result in a daily fine of R$ 1,000.