Panama Canal ups maximum authorized draft for Neopanamax locks

The maximum allowable draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks is being increased to 14.33 m (47.0 feet) in response to rising waters in two lakes linking to the canal.    In the wake of recent rainfall that brought two artificial lakes that link to the Panama Canal to their operating limits, the Panama Canal has increased its maximum allowable draft for vessels passing through its Neopanamax locks, canal operators announced Dec. 18.
   “Effective immediately and until further notice, the maximum allowable draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be increased to 14.33 m (47.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW),” the canal said in response to rising waters in the Gatun and Alajuela lakes.
   “With the expected arrival of the dry season in the next few weeks, the Panama Canal will continue to monitor and manage the water levels of the Gatun and Alajuela Lakes,” the announcement continued. “Any necessary updates to the maximum allowable draft will be announced in a timely manner.”
   The canal also said it plans to continue to provide information on the measures being taken, and that it will closely monitor the situation to ensure the security and efficiency of its services.