THE TEST  filling  of the reservoir at the Barro Blanco hydro project,  began at 8:30 a.m. on  Tuesday May 24, while Indigenous protestors blocked the road between David Chiriqui and Changuinola , Bocas Del Toro.

Staff of the National Authority of Public Services and the civil defense agency Sinaproc were on hand to supervise the filling and verify that the process does not affect the surrounding communities.

Authority Administrator Roberto Meana said that the tests are needed to verify there are no leaks at the site and the work will proceed slowly with the maximum level reached on June 21.

Meana reiterated that hydroelectric plant will not enter into operation until completion of the dialogue with indigenous leaders.

The project has been opposed because of its impact on nearby communities.

The  protesters are demanding that the testing be halted and called on President Juan Carlos Varela to fulfill with his commitment that he would engage in dialogue with indigenous people who oppose the hydroelectric plant.