New locks get test transit days ahead of opening
WITH JUST days to go to the official grand opening of the new locks the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) carried out the first test transit of the new locks in Cocoli on Monday June 20
The test was performed with the Oceanus, a multipurpose boat owned by the ACP which is commonly used in maintenance tasks.
The ship departed from Gatun Lake, 24 meters above sea level, and descended gradually through the three chambers of the locks.
These tests were done to assess the operation of the locks, the movement of water and the behavior of the gates and valves, among other things.
Jorge Luis Quijano, administrator of the ACP, said that the tests have met expectations.
Quijano noted that they are contemplating the possibility of making another test with a Panamax vessel during the week. The Chinese owned vessel assigned for the official ceremony is currently at sea on its voyage from Greece.
