Lake Gatun and Its Role in the Panama Canal

Prelims

The Panama Canal, a critical global trade route, is under threat due to declining water levels in Lake Gatun, an artificial reservoir essential for its functioning.

About Lake Gatun

• Formation: Created by damming the Chagres River and its tributaries at Gatun.
• Function: Stores water for the Gaillard Cut, enabling smooth canal operations and supplying water to the locks during dry periods.
• Geographical Feature: Guacha Island is located at the center of the lake.

Significance of the Panama Canal

• A key shipping corridor linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
• Located in Central America, it traverses the Isthmus of Panama.
• Plays a crucial role in global maritime trade, reducing transit time between oceans.