NON-IRRIGABLE PARCELS OF THE PONTAL PROJECT: NEW SOCIAL CONCEPTS AND THE SHIFT IN PARADIGM SHIFT IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF PUBLIC IRRIGATION PROJECTS

The Pontal Public Irrigation (PPI) Pontal, located in the municipality of Petrolina, in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, constitutes a relevant territorial development initiative implemented by the São Francisco and Parnaíba Valleys Development Company (Codevasf). Within the scope of this project, the creation of Non-Irrigable Parcel Units, known as Rainfed Areas, was conceived as a strategy to mitigate the social impacts resulting from the expropriation process required for the implementation of the irrigated area. This article aims to analyze the conception, implementation, achieved results, and contemporary challenges of the Pontal Public Irrigation Project with regard to the Rainfed Areas, in light of the legal instruments that regulate the occupation of public lands, particularly the Occupation Authorization (OA), as well as the legislation related to irrigation policy and family farming. The research is based on documentary analysis, technical reports, field inspections, and interviews conducted with beneficiaries. The results indicate that, although noncompliances were identified in part of the occupied areas, the project presents positive impacts in the social, economic, and environmental dimensions, with no evidence of impairment to its continuity, provided that corrective measures are adopted, systematic technical monitoring is ensured, and land tenure management instruments are improved. It is concluded that the maintenance and enhancement of the Pontal Project focused on Rainfed Areas are essential for promoting sustainable development in the semi-arid region of Pernambuco, contributing to productive inclusion, legal security for occupants, and the consolidation of public policies aimed at rural development.