The Amazon River is considered one of the most important watercourses on the planet due to its extension and flow. However, beneath its surface, at 4,000 meters depth, flows another unique underground river: the Hamza River.
This deep aquifer was revealed in 2011 when a study led by scientists from the National Observatory of Brazil disclosed its existence and extraordinary parallels with the Amazon, stretching for 6,000 kilometers from the Andes to the Atlantic.
A river that defies the traditional definition
Although it is called the Hamza River in honor of scientist Valiya Mannathal Hamza, there is still debate on whether its classification as a “river” is correct.
Unlike conventional rivers, this underground water system:
- Flows in the same direction as the Amazon (from west to east).
- Moves extremely slowly, at a speed of centimeters per year.
- Circulates through porous rocks, hindering conventional flow.
For these reasons, some scientists consider that the Hamza is more of a deep aquifer than a river per se.
A little-explored geological wonder
The Hamza River represents a rare phenomenon in the world, confirming the possibility that other similar underground rivers flow beneath large river systems on different continents.
Moreover, its interaction with the Amazon makes it a unique example of a system of twin rivers flowing at different levels of the Earth’s crust.
Significance of the discovery and future research
Although its location and general characteristics have been determined, the Hamza River remains a mystery in many aspects.
Future research could unveil more details about:
- Its impact on the region’s hydrological cycle.
- Possible deep water reserves in South America.
- Geological interactions allowing its constant flow.
This fascinating discovery reinforces the idea that there is still much to learn about the hidden structure of the planet and the underground water systems that may play a key role in global ecological balance.
Cover photo: Fundación Aquae
