THE MIRAFLORES Lake, vital to the functioning of the Panama Canal, is facing twin attacks from deforestation and pollution.

The warning came  from Panama Canal Authority (ACP) official Oscar Vallarino during a Thursday, September 8  inspection of a project being by the North Properties company,  saying there is  evidence of the lack of measures of erosion control around the lake.

He said sediment washes into the lake, which can affect the water quality.

This analysis coincides with a report from the Ministry of the Environment about possible "breaches" in the protected area around the lake.

Environmental lawyer Susana Serracín said that the situation is "alarming" because the authorities are allowing these projects to continue.