Panama Canal raises draught limit ahead of schedule

The Panama Canal Authority has raised the draught limit for vessels transiting the vital waterway, signaling a recovery from the severe drought that had affected operations.

PHOTO: The Port of Balboa at Panama's Pacific Ocean side. Getty Images

With effect from 30 May, the highest permitted draught has been raised to 13.71 meters (45 feet). Initially planned for 15 June, this adjustment has been brought forward in anticipation of the upcoming rainy season in the Panama Canal Watershed and the forecasted water levels of Gatun Lake.

After more than a year of restrictions due to drought conditions, the Panama Canal is moving towards normal operations.

Since 16 May, the daily transits in the Panamax locks have risen from 17 to 24. Additionally, from 1 June, the daily transits in the Neopanamax locks have increased from 7 to 8. These changes will boost the total daily vessel transits to 32, thereby expanding the canal’s overall capacity.

By Debarati Bhattacharjee

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