The Panama Canal Authority (PCA) has announced an increase in the number of daily transit slots in response to the present and projected level of the Gatun Lake.
The PCA announced through an Advisory to Shipping on Monday that it had made the new adjustment to accommodate the growing demand for transits, by increasing the number of daily slots available in the Panamax Locks.
“Two additional slots will be offered through auction for transit dates beginning March 18, and an additional slot will become available for transit dates beginning March 25.”
PCA said that between 18 and 25 March it could accommodate a total of seven Neopanamax and 20 Panamax vessels, compared with a total of 24 vessels during the current period ending 17 March. “These measures allow the majority of vessels that want to transit the canal to have a better chance of obtaining a reservation.”
The authority said Panama Canal specialists were closely monitoring the current water situation, and the measures announced in the advisory would remain in effect until conditions warranted changes, which would be announced in a timely manner.
“Panama and the Panama Canal continue to offer unsurpassed advantages to the world’s maritime commerce due to our strategic geographic location. We are aware of our responsibilities as the logistics hub of the Americas. The Panama Canal will continue to uphold its role, not merely as a path between seas but as a bridge to a sustainable future, navigating through change with steadfast resolve,” said PCA.
