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22 Feb 2017 / Panama Canal, Panama

Implementation of water conservation measures

Registered precipitation in the Canal watershed from January 1, 2017, to February 15, 2017, has been 50% below the average for this time of year, causing water levels in Gatun and Madden Lakes to fall well below the expected levels.

Due to the current situation, the Panama Canal has deemed it necessary to implement water conservation measures in order to reduce the possibility of imposing draft restrictions in the near future.

Therefore, the following measures are being implemented effective immediately:

  • Suspension of hydraulic assist procedures at the Panamax locks for deep draft vessels;
  • Maximization of the use of cross-filling and cross-spilling at the Panamax locks;
  • Use of water-saving basins at the Neopanamax locks;
  • Suspension of special lockages for handlines;
  • Maximization of tandem lockages.

Although these measures are not expected to have a major impact on the Canal’s capacity, some may have an adverse effect on normal transit operations.

These water conservation measures will remain in force until water levels return to normal.

(For information about operations in the Panama Canal contact GAC-Wilford & McKay at [email protected])

Source: Panama Canal Authority Advisory To Shipping No. A-07-2017 dated February 21, 2017

If quoting any content from Hot Port News, please cite GAC Hot Port News as the source.

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