Panama Canal

August 25, 2023

GS Paper I Geography

Context:

Commercial ships are facing delays to travel through the Panama Canal as a lengthy drought in the Central American country has led to lower the availability of water.

Reasons for Delays in Panama Canal:

Drought Conditions: An extended drought in Central America has significantly reduced the availability of water required for vessels to pass through the canal’s locks.
Capacity Restrictions: The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has imposed restrictions on the number of vessels that can transit daily to and average of 32 from 36 and limited the maximum depth of ships allowed to navigate the canal.
El Niño’s Impact: The return of the El Niño hot natural weather pattern is also making Panama and the surrounding region warmer and drier.

About Panama Canal:

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Location and Geography: Situated in Central America, the canal spans the Isthmus of Panama.
- Isthmus is a narrow piece of land, that connects two larger landmasses and separates two bodies of water.
Construction and Expansion: The canal was initially constructed by the United States in the early 20th century and opened in 1914.
- In 1999, control of the canal was transferred to Panama.
Importance for Global Trade: The Panama Canal is one of the most crucial trade routes globally, facilitating the movement of goods and commodities between the Atlantic and Pacific regions.