The new restrictions mean a reduction in the allowable drawdown by 2 m, or 13%, according to the channel’s administration.
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has issued a circular announcing additional restrictions on the handling of ships passing through the new Neopanamax lock.
Starting next week, the maximum allowable draft for vessels passing through the Neopanamax lock will be 13.26m, compared to the 13.56m currently allowed. The design parameters of the new locks, which were completed in 2016, provide for the passage of ships with a draft of up to 50 feet or 15.2 m.
The new limits mean a reduction in allowable subsidence by 2m or 13%.
The canal administration has described current conditions as “an unprecedented drought” and this year is “the driest year on record since 1950.”
The canal operator has warned of the possible introduction of other water-saving measures, including limiting the number of ships passing through the canal by a quarter to 28 from the current 36.
Recall that the Danish carrier Maersk continued to deliver goods to the Ukrainian port, and also sold its logistics assets to the Russian Federation.
Source: korrespondent
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