A Brazilian court has given the go-ahead for the construction of one of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams, over the objections of local indigenous communities and environmentalists. On Wednesday, the court ruled construction of the Belo Monte Dam in the northern state of Para would proceed, despite a mass movement against the project. Federal prosecutors in the state had filed a motion to stop the construction until indigenous groups were consulted and given access to environmental impact reports. The Brazilian government claims the dam will provide clean, renewable energy and serve the country’s growing economy. Critics argue the dam will devastate wildlife and the livelihoods of some 40,000 people who live in the area.