World’s First Global Maritime Competition
Local Communities Challenge Panama Canal Expansion Project In Supreme Court
Local communities that would need to leave their homes and relocate due to the Panama Canal’s plans to construct a $1.6 billion reservoir have filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court.
They claimed that the project to increase the number of vessel transits in the canal is not constitutional.
Per reports, around 2500 people will be impacted by the construction of the Rio Indio Reservoir.
The canal authority has said that there is a need to secure more water after drought forced it to decrease the number of ship crossings from spring 2023 to 2024.
Once the reservoir is built, it will increase the canal’s capacity by up to 15 ships per day during the dry season and also supply drinking water to 4.5 million Panamanian people.
Coordinadora Campesina por la Vida, the farmers’ group that filed the lawsuit, said most residents do not want to relocate, adding that the project violates the constitution on six grounds, including disregard for human life and environmental treaties signed by the nation.
They also stated that the canal authority did not consult the affected communities.
He group added that another project, which involves the expansion of a reservoir served by the Bayano River, which wouldn’t need people to relocate, should be developed instead of this one.
Santander Tristan, lawyer for the communities, said in court that the canal has not done things right and the Rio Indio Project must be stopped, and a process of dialogue should be started.
Florentin Chiru, Vice President of the Group, said that the canal authority lied when it stated that 85% of the communities were in favour of the construction.
He added that initially, people were not told that, nor asked whether they would want to leave their land.
The group does not support a massive dam that would be constructed to contain the Indo River, and environmental activists said that dams are reducing the biodiversity of Panama.
Approximately 100 residents and farmers organised a protest outside the court, saying that they do not oppose progress, but the move that seeks to remove them from their land without their consent.
Related Posts
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT