The Panama Canal:

In a previous paper on Canal management we examined the treaties and regulations underpinning firstly American and later Panamanian administration of the Canal. We also looked at the transfer of the Canal into Panamanian hands, including the management models used, ending with a review of toll structures and results. The subject of this paper is the operation of the Canal and the heated debate surrounding its modernisation, with a view to determining the adequacy of projected plans, as well as any future requirements, for maintaining its capacity in the 21 century. This paper seeks to analyse the Canal's operation, modernisation programmes and traffic systems as well as its key element: human resources.