The Panamanian Association of Business Executives (Apede) warned that the country does not have clear protocols to respond to emergencies in strategic structures.
“What happened in bridge of the americasIn addition to being an unfortunate event, it was a warning sign. In a few hours, one of the country’s main connections was compromised, affecting the mobility of thousands of Panamanians, the economic activity and the normal functioning of the city,” is highlighted in the union’s weekly message: La Voz de Apede.
It is highlighted that, beyond the fact, A fire involving several fuel tankers on the grounds below the bridge, whose flames reached part of the structure, left a sign of what cannot continue to be ignored.
“Panama still does not have clear and coordinated protocols to respond to emergencies in strategic infrastructure.”
The Apede emphasizes that what was seen on the Bridge of the Americas was the effort of different entities trying to resolve a complex situation, but without a previously defined protocol.
The union warns that this generates delays, uncertainty and a greater impact for citizens.
Given this situation, Apede expressed its support for the initiative presented by the Executive to discuss a standard of Critical Infrastructures and Essential Services, with the purpose of strengthening the way in which the country responds to situations that may compromise its operation.
“This initiative raises something fundamental: establishing a clear framework to protect, ensure and guarantee the continuity of the infrastructures that support the functioning of the country,” Apede highlighted.
Last Monday, April 6, in the La Boca sector, where three tanker trucks exploded and caused a large fireball that reached the bottom of the road structure. The explosion and fire left one dead and two firefighters injured.
The Panamanian authorities are scheduled to reveal this Monday, April 13, the report on the inspection carried out on the bridge structure.
