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Panama Canal Eases Restrictions Adding Transit Slot and Maximum Draft
The move follows improved rainfall and Gatun Lake levels, while slot auctions have reached a record $5.3 million for one transit, officials said.
- The Panama Canal Authority announced it will increase Neo-panamax lock transits to 10 daily, totaling 33 slots, beginning October 15. This adjustment follows improved water levels in Gatun Lake, allowing the Canal to ease previous limitations.
- In recent months, the ACP had reduced draughts and vessel transits as the powerful El Nino effect impacted rainfall across Panama. These measures were necessary to manage water levels amid a prolonged drought.
- Effective immediately, the maximum authorised draught for vessels transiting the Neo-panamax locks increases to 49 feet. This change is especially significant for LNG carriers and larger containerships.
- Despite easing restrictions, the Transit Reservation System remains the only way to guarantee a transit date as the water deficit continues in the Canal watershed. The ACP remains committed to closely monitoring water conditions.
- New data show Gatun Lake levels rose to 84.7 feet from 84.5 feet last week. The ACP will continue monitoring rainfall levels, communicating any further adjustments in a timely manner, as circumstances allow.
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Between 2023 and 2024, the Canal was forced to reduce to 22 the number of crossings per day also by El Niño
From the 15th of October it will increase to 10 traffics per day through the locks Neopanamax, for a total of 33 places. In addition, a maximum draught of 14.94 meters (49 feet) is authorized.
·Warsaw, Poland
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Panama Canal Adds Transit Capacity as Rainfall Brings Relief
The Panama Canal is easing restrictions on vessel draft and daily transits after improved rainfall and water-saving measures helped stabilize conditions in the waterway’s drought-sensitive watershed. The Panama Canal Authority said the...
·Morro Bay, United States
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left0Leaning Right1Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution83% Center
Bias Distribution
- 83% of the sources are Center
83% Center
C 83%
R 17%
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