The Panama Canal is a crucial spot for global shipping as it effectively links the Americas with the EU and Asia since 1914, more than 100 years ago. However, maintenance is needed to ensure the Canal’s operations in the future.
The Canal has taken various measures to improve supply chain efficiency and shipping’s carbon footprint the last years. For instance, in 2021 it increased the maximum allowable length for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks. Furthermore, it contributed to the reduction of 16 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent emissions in 2021, in comparison to the most likely alternative routes.
"These Panama Canal locks are more than 100 years old, and our maintenance plan is designed to extend their life for another 100 years", Miguel Lorenzo, vice president of infrastructure and engineering for the canal authority, told AFP.
As evident by the vice president’s statement, construction work is underway in the Canal to ensure its smooth operation.
According to AFP, the dearth of rain has forced the canal to reduce the draft of ships, with the water shortage at least temporarily threatening the future of the vital maritime route.
During maintenance work, the intention is to dry the chamber and have access to all electrical components and equipment in order to recondition them and extend their operational life, Miguel Lorenzo said to AFP. At the same time, when they dry the chamber, they are able to see the concrete walls and seal any fissures, cracks or damage.
"The canal was designed as a very robust structure, and that permits us to extend its life through maintenance", said Miguel Lorenzo to AFP.
Maintenance work may be underway but traffic through the canal continues. To understand how the canal works, watch the informative video bellow:
Source: Safety4sea
