The Land Transit and Transportation Authority (ATTT) has ordered a nationwide suspension of road construction and lane closures. The order is in effect for the extended Martyrs’ Day holiday weekend to facilitate public travel.
All work occupying traffic lanes must cease from 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, until 4:00 a.m. on Monday, January 12. Officials anticipate a significant increase in vehicle movement during this period. The directive was issued in coordination with the Traffic Operations Directorate of the National Police of Panama.
The suspension covers a vast network of the country’s most critical roads. It applies along the entire stretch of the Pan-American Highway from La Espiga in La Chorrera to the border at Paso Canoas. Another major segment runs from the intersection with the Corredor Sur to the Las Garzas sector in Pacora.
Major Urban Avenues Included in Order
Key urban arteries in Panama City are also included under the mandate. The list specifically names Domingo Díaz Avenue, Transístmica, Balboa, José Agustín Arango, José María Torrijos, Ricardo J. Alfaro, and Israel Avenue. These routes typically experience heavy congestion and are focal points for both commuter and holiday traffic.
Authorities stated the primary goal is ensuring safe and orderly public movement. The holiday, known as Martyrs’ Day (Panama), is a solemn national observance. It commemorates those who lost their lives during the 1964 sovereignty protests over the Panama Canal Zone.
“The main objective of this measure is to guarantee that citizens can travel safely and in an orderly manner during this commemorative date,” the ATTT stated in its official release. [Translated from Spanish]
Contractors and construction firms across Panama received formal notification this week. They must secure all work sites to prevent hazards for the increased volume of passing vehicles. Any non-essential equipment or materials blocking lanes must be removed entirely.
The National Police’s traffic division will increase patrols to monitor compliance. They will also manage traffic flow at known bottlenecks. This coordinated effort between the ATTT and police aims to prevent the gridlock that often accompanies long holiday weekends.
Drivers can expect all available lanes on major highways and avenues to be open. The temporary halt affects both public infrastructure projects and private development work that impedes roadways. Normal construction operations are scheduled to resume in the early morning hours of January 12.