PANAMA CANAL INTRODUCES $400-PER-TRANSIT SECURITY CHARGE

PANAMA CANAL INTRODUCES $400-PER-TRANSIT SECURITY CHARGE    The Panama Canal Authority will start charging a $400 security fee per vessel and transit on June 1.
   The Panama Canal Authority said that the fee is related to major investments to improve security and reduce the risk and vulnerability of its facilities.
   The investments include expanding the canal’s electronic monitoring and tracking systems. The Panama Canal Authority will add new computerized systems. It is currently working on an Automatic Identification System, to be tested this year and become mandatory by July 2003. The system will permit identifying and tracking all vessels before they enter canal waters and during transit.
   An additional 24-hour security control center has been established for incident and emergency management. Enhanced postings and patrols along the canal and its reservoirs will also increase security.
   The Panama Canal Authority said it will acquire equipment such as launches and specialized vehicles for patrolling, alarm systems and additional closed-circuit television for existing canal areas. The program also includes contracting of expert consultants in security matters to evaluate the risks and provide recommendations.