Residents of Llano del Medio in the Las Lomas township are demanding immediate action on a severe drinking water shortage. The crisis has lasted more than two months in the Chiriquí Province community. Local families say the lack of service has disrupted their daily routines and endangered vulnerable residents.
The water shortage affects school children, elderly adults, and people with serious health conditions. Many families now collect rainwater just to bathe and clean their homes. The potable water supply from the National Institute of Aqueducts and Sewers has been unreliable since early 2025. Residents report that Idaan officials have not provided a sustainable solution.
Residents Express Desperation Over Ongoing Water Crisis
Odorina Castillo, a long time resident of Llano del Medio, described the situation as unbearable. She said her family can no longer beg for water from neighbors or rely on sporadic truck deliveries. The community has made multiple requests to Idaan representatives but received no lasting relief.
“No more, we can’t stand begging for water anymore. We need a permanent solution, not temporary fixes.” [Translated from Spanish]
Another resident, Gertrudis Fuentes, directly appealed to national authorities. He argued that rural communities in the Chiriquí Province are often ignored when resources are distributed. Fuentes emphasized that residents want water service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“We ask the national director to look at the interior, at Chiriquí and the Las Lomas township. We have made requests and we have not found a solution. We want water 24/7.” [Translated from Spanish]
Threat of Protests if Water Service Remains Unrestored
Community leaders warned that patience is running out. They said they may organize street demonstrations if Idaan does not restore Potable water service soon. The situation has become a public health concern, especially for those who require constant access to clean water for medical needs.
Residents described using rainwater as their primary source for bathing and cleaning. This makeshift solution is not safe for drinking or cooking. The community has asked for emergency water trucks but reports that deliveries are infrequent and insufficient.
Idaan Faces Pressure to Address Rural Water Infrastructure
The crisis in Las Lomas highlights broader infrastructure challenges in Panama’s western provinces. Idaan, the national water and sewer authority, has struggled to maintain consistent service in rural areas. Aging pipes, limited treatment capacity, and growing demand all contribute to the problem.
Local officials say the Llano del Medio sector needs a dedicated water storage system or a new connection to a larger supply line. Without investment, they argue, the cycle of shortages will continue. Residents say they will not accept temporary measures any longer.
“We have made requests and we have not found a solution,” Fuentes repeated. The community wants a meeting with Idaan’s national director and the governor of Chiriquí Province. They demand a clear timeline for restoring permanent water service.
For now, families collect rainwater in buckets and barrels. They boil it when possible but often use it untreated. The health risks are clear, especially for children and the elderly. The community says it cannot wait another two months for action.