Panama Canal Authority Announces Río Indio Reservoir

The Panama Canal Board has approved resources for a new lake in the Indio River Watershed as part of the Water Projects Program.

Panama Canal Authority Announces Rio Indio Project 

With this initiative, the Panama Canal Authority aims to secure water for over half the population, enhance storage, mitigate drought impacts, and improve the function of the Panama Canal. The resolution addresses compensation for affected families, ensuring community involvement.

In an interview, Environment Minister Juan Carlos Navarro highlighted the importance of the project stating the initiative is crucial to guarantee the "sustainability of the Canal and the development of the country." 

“This project is critical for Panama and must be carried out properly, both environmentally and socially. There can be no project in Río Indio without the participation of the communities, but it is a necessity for the country.”

— Juan Carlos Navarro – Minister of Environment

While Navarro voiced the importance of including affected communities, many within those communities have concerns over the reservoir. 

NPR reports in their article, "The Panama Canal needs more water. The solution is a dam that could displace thousands" Local communities fear the loss of their homes and livelihoods. 

In Limón de Chagres, Panama, Digna Benite reflects on her life tied to the Río Indio, which is vital for her village and the Panama Canal. The plans for a new dam to address water shortages will displace her and thousands of others.

The Panama Canal Authority aims to build the dam by 2027, citing drought impacts, but many residents fear the loss of their livelihoods. Despite assurances of compensation and improved living conditions, residents like Alejandrina Muñoz express dissatisfaction, valuing their current resources and community.

Locals told NPR "Our river is not for sale," that they "will fight to protect their land".

Photo/source: NPR
Panama Canal Authority 
RESOLUTION No. ACP-JD-RM 25-1542