The Panama Canal Board of Directors has approved —under Resolution No. ACP-JD-RM 25-1542— the necessary resources for the construction of a new lake in the middle course of the Indio River Watershed. This is part of the Water Projects Program, created to guarantee water supply for over 50% of the country’s population, nearby communities, and Canal operations, as well as to foster other productive activities across the country. This project is a key element in Panama’s comprehensive solution for the water challenge, significantly increasing the storage capacity of this vital resource. It serves as a safety measure against future droughts, such as those experienced during 2023-2024. Furthermore, it represents a significant step towards Canal sustainability, reliability, and competitiveness, for the benefit of all Panamanians and global trade. The resolution includes fund allocation for compensation, resettlement, and support for families and property owners who may be affected by the project. Following the best worldwide social and environmental practices, this process will be carried out in a fair and timely manner, while guaranteeing informed community participation. Planned to be built in approximately six years, the project will become one of the decade’s most significant public investments, generating substantial nationwide employment and contributing to the country’s economic growth and prosperity. Also, the Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Plan will be developed with a focus on respecting the rights, culture, and traditions of the families involved, promoting their sustainable well-being. A crucial element of the resettlement plan is the detailed survey of all families living in the area, for which a census was initiated in August 2024 and set to be completed by April 30, 2025. This baseline survey allows the Panama Canal to better identify resident families and develop compensation processes. Following this approval, Canal teams have begun informative meetings with watershed communities to explain the resolution’s content, the importance of census participation before the set deadline, and the residents’ involvement and contribution priorities in developing the Resettlement and Livelihood Restoration Plan. These meetings include house visits and gatherings with the entire community, with ongoing assistance provided at the six Community Relations Offices strategically located in the territory. The Resolution has been made available to the public at https://pancanal.com/registros-del-canal/. Rio Indio: A national interest project with an important local development impact
