Panama: River Pollution - Jun 2025

Since the end of May 2025, the La Villa River — the main water source for the provinces of Herrera and Los Santos — has been facing a critical situation due to severe contamination. A technical operation carried out by the Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) between 27 May and 6 June identified at least 23 critical contamination points along the watersheds of the La Villa and Estibaná rivers. The main sources of pollution include pig farms, industrial discharges, and a municipal landfill in the district of Macaracas. These have contributed to the presence of animal fecal matter, sediments, and other solid waste in the river, significantly deteriorating water quality (1). During the inspection — which covered 20 km of the La Villa River and 19 km of the Estibaná River — a substantial decline in both physical and biological water parameters was documented, posing a direct threat to public health and the well-being of local communities (2). In response to this environmental emergency, the National Government declared a state of emergency on June 10, through Resolution No. 69-25, covering both provinces. This measure led to the temporary suspension of water treatment plant operations due to high levels of turbidity and organic matter in the river (3). The most affected districts are Chitré, Los Santos, Las Tablas, and Guararé, where thousands of people rely directly on the La Villa River for access to drinking water. The situation has generated growing concern among the population, which is now facing water supply restrictions and increased health risks. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and additional measures are expected to be announced in the coming days to mitigate the impacts and gradually restore water quality in the region. (IFRC, 26 Jun 2025)