The administrator of the Panama Canal, Ricaurte Vásquez, has acknowledged that the canal is currently going through its most challenging period in history due to a lack of rainfall and increased water demand.
Vásquez highlighted that while difficult moments have been experienced in the past, such as the extreme drought in 1997, the volume of water usage was significantly lower at that time, and there was more availability of water in Lake Gatun, the canal’s primary water source.
However, the situation is different now with the neopanamax lock in operation, allowing larger vessels to transit and increased water withdrawals for human consumption.
The capacity of Lake Gatun to sustain a higher volume of water demand is more challenging.
Vásquez emphasized the vulnerability of operations and the extraction of water for human consumption when extreme water scarcity occurs.
The critical situation is attributed to factors such as the increased population relying on Gatun Lake for water supply compared to 1997 when the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) was established.
Acknowledging the drought and the possibility of El Niño, Vásquez expressed concern about the operation for the next 18 months, including the upcoming rainy season with lower and shorter rainfall.
To address the water shortage, the administrator anticipates implementing more restrictions, including reducing the draft limits for vessels.
This will result in ships needing to lighten their cargo, increasing costs for the route.
Vásquez emphasized the importance of collaborating with the maritime industry to explore options for enhancing transit efficiency.
The Panama Canal Authority is actively considering long-term engineering proposals to ensure a reliable supply of drinking water.