Installation of the 16th gate started on Tuesday on the Pacific side of the canal.
“Today’s installation is a key milestone in the expansion programme and another important step forward for the canal," said Panama Canal Authority administrator Jorge L. Quijano. “Once finished, the expanded waterway will provide new possibilities for world maritime trade and further position the canal as a reliable route to the industry."
With the final gate installed electro-mechanical works will be undertaken.
The expansion of the canal has reached 87.6% completion and the next milestone will be the flooding of the lock chambers.
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