Panama Canal Authority rescinds second draft restriction

The authority said that as a result of recent rainfall, there is no longer a need for the second draft restriction that was tentatively scheduled for Sept. 15.    The Panama Canal Authority cancelled its second draft restriction, which was tentatively scheduled for Sept. 15.
   Current water conditions no longer warrant the need for the second draft restriction because of recent rainfall, the authority said in a statement.
   The first draft restriction of 11.89 meters in tropical fresh water will still take effect Sept. 8 and will continue until further notice. Vessels that arrive after this date with drafts over the limit may still be allowed to transit the waterway, depending on Gatun Lake’s water level during the time of transit, according to the authority.
   The Panama Canal Authority said these measures are being taken to ensure safety and are not expected to significantly impact the efficiency or capacity of canal operations.