GARACHINE

• PAGHE
• Latitude: 8.07002
• Longitude: -78.3652
• West Coast Central America
• Port in Panama

Location: Panama

Garachine is a maritime port situated in the Republic of Panama. Here is a detailed description and specifications of the Garachine port:

General Summary:

• Location: Garachine is located on the Pacific coast of Panama, in the Darien Province.
• Coordinates: Approximately 8°04'N latitude and 78°33'W longitude.
• Primary Functions: The port serves as a commercial and logistical hub, offering facilities for cargo handling, fishing, and sometimes passenger services.
• Accessibility: It provides maritime access for vessels navigating the Pacific waters of Panama.

Port Infrastructure and Facilities:

1. Berthing and Anchoring:

   • Type of Berths: The port typically features general cargo berths suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
   • Anchorage Areas: Designated anchorage areas are available for vessels waiting to dock and for safer navigation.

2. Cargo Handling Capabilities:

   • Equipment: Basic cargo handling equipment, including cranes and forklifts, although the scale might be limited compared to larger ports.
   • Storage Facilities: Warehouses and open storage areas available for temporary storage of goods.

3. Navigational Aids:

   • Lighthouses and Buoys: Adequate navigational aids such as lighthouses and buoys to assist in safe entry and departure from the port.

4. Port Services:

   • Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage services for guiding vessels through local waters.
   • Tug Services: Availability of tugboats for assisting in berthing and maneuvering.
   • Bunkering: Fueling services for ships, although limited compared to larger ports.
   • Ship Repair: Basic repair and maintenance services.

Connectivity and Accessibility:

• Road Connections: Limited road infrastructure connecting the port to the broader region, which may include unpaved roads.
• Air Connections: Proximity to small airstrips for regional flights, but no major airport nearby.
• Rail Connections: Generally absent, as the region is less developed in terms of rail infrastructure.

Economic and Regional Importance:

• Garachine plays a significant role in supporting the local economy, providing essential services for fishing boats and small commercial vessels.
• Acts as a crucial point for distributing goods to and from the remote Darien region.

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations:

• Environmental Protection: Measures in place to protect the local marine environment from port activities, though specifics may vary.
• Customs and Regulations: The port operates under Panamanian customs regulations, facilitating import and export activities.

Future Development:

• Expansion Plans: Potential for development to enhance cargo handling capabilities and infrastructure, aiming to improve economic prospects for the region.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Plans for environmentally sustainable practices to cope with increased maritime traffic and industrial activities.

Additional Considerations:

• Seasonal Accessibility: Weather patterns, including the rainy season, can affect port operations.
• Security Measures: Implementations of ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) code for maintaining security standards.

Conclusion:

Garachine is a smaller yet vital port within Panama’s maritime infrastructure. While it may not match the scale of larger ports like Balboa or Colon, it serves crucial regional needs with potential for future growth and development.