POTSA Can Continue Operating Under the Bridge of the Americas While the Legal Process is Resolved Says AMP
Tank yard area in the La Boca sector of Balboa, below the Bridge of the Americas, where the accident occurred. The company filed an appeal with the AMP.
Panama Oil Terminals, SA (POTSA) will be able to continue operating after the explosion and fire that left one dead and two firefighters injured with first and second degree burns under the Bridge of the Americas, in the old fuel tank yard in Balboa pictured above. It was also learned that the insurance company that acts as POTSA’s surety also filed a motion for reconsideration, and both are under legal review. While the legal process is underway, the authority cannot restrict access to the concession area, although they recommended that the Fire Department temporarily suspend activities for safety reasons.
The Autoridad Marítima de Panamá (AMP) (Panama Maritime Authority) is the independent state entity responsible for managing, regulating, and overseeing Panama’s maritime sector, including the world’s largest ship registry. Established in 1998, it unifies competences over ports, merchant marine, and seafarers to ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
Key responsibilities and functions include:
- Ship Registry: Operating as the world’s top ship registry and flagging authority.
- Port Management: Overseeing port terminals, auxiliary maritime industries, and maritime security.
- Seafarer Regulation: Certifying seafarers and ensuring compliance with international maritime standards.
- Maritime Strategy: Developing national strategies for the maritime and logistics sectors.
The AMP is directed by an Administrator appointed by the President of Panama. The institution was formed to consolidate maritime functions into one agency, promoting investment, sustainable growth, and safety in Panama’s maritime sector.
