Panama Canal Expansion Project Celebrates 7th Anniversary Amidst Significant Challenges

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Written By Jennifer Joslyn

💦 Panama Canal Expansion Project Celebrates 7th Anniversary Amidst Significant Challenges.

The Panama Canal Authority marks the seventh anniversary of the expanded Neopanamax locks, which have transformed global shipping by accommodating larger vessels. Since its inauguration in 2016, over 20,600 vessels have transited through the expanded canal, contributing to more than 50% of its total tonnage. However, this milestone is overshadowed by a major challenge: a severe drought that has disrupted normal canal operations. The historic drought has led to strict draft restrictions and limited the size and cargo capacity of ships using the canal. The Panama Canal Authority is implementing water-saving measures and closely monitoring weather patterns, but the economic consequences of the drought are unavoidable.

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Jennifer Joslyn
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