The National Railway Secretariat of Panama (SNDF) has officially announced the start of the development of the Category III Environmental Impact Study (EIS) for Phase 1 of the Panama–David–Border railway project, in collaboration with the international firm WSP. This fundamental phase will ensure that the railway project is developed under the highest standards of sustainability, transparency, and respect for communities and the environment. Fieldwork is scheduled to begin in November 2025 and continue through March 2026. During this phase, the necessary information will be gathered to characterize the current environmental conditions and support the socio-environmental assessment of the project. The purpose is to define management, prevention, mitigation, and compensation measures to ensure a sustainable, responsible execution in balance with the environment and local communities. The baseline study will cover the provinces of Panama, West Panama, Coclé, and Herrera along the route of Phase 1: Panama–Divisa. This project aims to strengthen logistics competitiveness, boost regional development, and connect Panama with the future. The National Railway Secretariat reaffirms its mission to build a modern, safe, and sustainable transportation system.
Henry Faarup, National Secretary of the Railway, stated: "We are committed to a project that will transform the country's mobility, respect its environmental wealth, and contribute to improving the quality of life for Panamanians. This train is a symbol of integration, progress, and national vision." The study will also strengthen social and community planning, ensuring that those within the area of influence are part of the process through surveys, interviews, informational meetings, and dialogue spaces. "We want this project to be an example of how progress can be built while caring for our own," Faarup added. The development of this study aligns with the environmental protection norms of multilateral banks and the highest international sustainability standards. These actions will lay the foundation for a project that combines development and innovation with environmental responsibility, guaranteeing the fulfillment of Panama's international commitments for the sustainable growth of its railway infrastructure. This stage is carried out in compliance with Executive Decree No. 1 of March 1, 2023.
