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Colón Waste Collection Contract Nears Decision; Mayor Rejects Extension

Colón Waste Collection Contract Nears Decision; Mayor Rejects Extension

From TVN Panamá · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The future of waste collection in Colón, Panama, is uncertain as the municipality decides whether to extend the contract with Aguaseo or seek a new bid.
  • Mayor Diógenes Galván opposes extending Aguaseo's contract for another 20 years, citing alleged deficiencies and landfill contamination.
  • Residents are urging the authorities to ensure an efficient waste collection service across all 15 districts.

The district of Colón faces an uncertain future regarding its solid waste collection services, with municipal authorities deliberating between extending the current concession contract with Aguaseo or initiating a new bidding process.

Mayor Diógenes Galván has publicly stated his opposition to a 20-year extension for Aguaseo, expressing that the company does not merit such a renewal. He cited significant concerns about the operation of the landfill, describing it as "deeply contaminated" and noting that no improvements have been made over the past 25 years. Galván also pointed out that the landfill reportedly lacks an operating license.

Galván indicated that the decision-making process requires the Municipal Council's authorization for him to negotiate various alternatives. Subsequently, the council will evaluate and approve or reject the proposed course of action. The mayor emphasized that the situation at the landfill, including its contamination and lack of proper licensing, forms the basis of his stance against contract renewal.

Meanwhile, residents of Colón are pressing the municipal government to prioritize their well-being by guaranteeing an efficient and reliable waste collection service throughout the district's 15 corregimientos. Their calls highlight the community's desire for a solution that ensures consistent service delivery.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by TVN Panamá in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.