Panama Carnaval site clean up underway

Health officials are getting ready for a “deep cleansing” of the area near Panama’s Fish Market where the pre-Lenten Carnaval is scheduled to take place.

Commentators have described the area as akin to a post WW II bomb site,  and a poor advertisement for visiting tourists.

Others have claimed that it is an academic matter, as the Carnaval, unlike Las Hablas and the world famed Carnival in Rio, atttracts few tourists and is attended largely by local celebrants.

Meanwhile, the annual concerns about the location what many seen as a bachanallian  noise and drink fest are being raised. This time with added concerns about damage to the Cinta Costera, promoted as a city show piece, but already suffering the effects of the dry season, and looking forward to a projected 250,000 celebrants.

Metropolitan Health Director, Jorge Hassansa told TVN News on Monday, February 14, that he has toured the area to check the siting of 110 food stalls placed on the Cinta Costera. Vendors interested in the positions must have a health certificate and appropriate work permits.
Medical personnel will be available on the carnival route which starts at theSeafood Market Street and ends at Calle 30, off Avenida Balboa.