Panama Canal expansion 41% complete

Work to increase the capacity of the Panama Canal was 41% complete as of the end of June, according to the Panama Canal Authority (ACP). Dredging work is well advanced on the US$ 5.25 billion scheme, but there have been delays in constructing new locks.

According to ACP data, the dredging of the Pacific entrance is 86% complete, while the channel dredging is 73% complete. On the Atlantic side, the entrance only has 2% to go, while dredging of Lake Gatun and Galliard Cut are 72% complete.

However, construction of the locks is said to be seven months behind schedule due to revisions being made to the contractor's design. Placing of structural concrete is now underway on these elements of the scheme.