The Ministry of the Environment (MiAmbiente) has established a single water source for the water trucks that will be used during the 2026 Carnival celebrations in the districts of Capira, La Chorrera, and Arraiján in the West Panama province. This decision was made after personnel from the Water Security section of MiAmbiente determined that the waters of several rivers and streams in these districts do not qualify for recreational use, following the corresponding technical evaluations. According to an official note sent by MiAmbiente to the municipalities of Capira, La Chorrera, and Arraiján, the Sajalices River, located in the Chame district, is the only authorized point for supplying water to the water trucks during the four days of Carnival celebrations. During the inspections, officials from MiAmbiente and the Ministry of Health (MINSA) evaluated the physical, environmental, and sanitary conditions, as well as the flow rate and compatibility with the priority uses of the water resource. The environmental entity also informed that the deadline to obtain water use permits will be February 6, and the cost for each authorized water truck will be $60.00.
