The Panama Canal Board of Directors has approved the necessary funds—under Resolution No. ACP-JD-RM 25-1542—for constructing a new lake along the middle course of the Indio River Watershed. This initiative is a cornerstone of the Water Projects Program, designed to secure water supply for over half of Panama’s population, support Canal operations, and stimulate broader productive activities nationwide.
Addressing Panama’s long-term water challenges, the project will significantly expand storage capacity, serving as a safeguard against future droughts like those experienced in 2023–2024. It also marks a crucial step toward enhancing the Canal’s sustainability, reliability, and competitiveness, thereby benefiting both the nation and global trade.
In addition to infrastructure development, the resolution allocates funds for compensation, resettlement, and support for families and property owners potentially affected by the project. This process will adhere to the highest international social and environmental standards, ensuring fair, timely treatment and robust community involvement.
Scheduled for completion in approximately six years, the project is set to become one of the decade’s most significant public investments, creating widespread employment opportunities and contributing to Panama’s economic growth.
A key component is the Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Plan, which will be developed with a focus on respecting the rights, culture, and traditions of affected families. A comprehensive census began in August 2024 and is expected to be completed by April 30, 2025, providing essential baseline data to guide the compensation process.
Following the resolution’s approval, Canal teams have initiated a series of community outreach efforts—including informative meetings, home visits, and gatherings facilitated by six strategically located Community Relations Offices—to explain the project details and underscore the importance of census participation and active community engagement.
For additional details, the full resolution is available at Panama Canal Registries. https://lnkd.in/eEC-TUFE
