Panama canal to ease traffic restrictions amid drought impact
Posted on April 22, 2024 |
The Panama Canal will increase the number of ships permitted to transit each day due to improved water levels.
Climate change and the El Nino phenomenon contributed to low water levels last year, prompting officials to limit vessel traffic through the canal.
The Panama Canal Authority announced plans to gradually raise the daily ship limit to 32, up from the previous limit of 27.
Maximum draft restrictions for ships passing through the largest locks will also increase to 13.71 meters (45 feet) in mid-June, compared to the previous limit of 13.41 meters.
These adjustments aim to mitigate the impact of drought conditions and facilitate smoother transit for international cargo.
Despite environmental challenges, the Panama Canal remains a crucial transit point for global trade.