Hor  por Hoy La Prensa, September, 16

Historically, Panama has not been affected by significant natural disasters. This explains much of our culture of little preparation and planning against catastrophic events.

The metropolitan area has become a magnet for the population that, in search of a better future, has settled into any available space, whether or not safe for human life. To this situation is added the proliferation of developments and condo complexes, which built with an intensive land use have increased the saturation of urban space and the risk of collapse of public services.

This complex reality has created undesirable impacts including massive traffic jams, lack of public spaces and threats to neighboring communities such as floods and landslides. Risks are guaranteed, the victims are many and the potential damages may be higher.

It is about time to straighten out the management of the construction sector and to establish true urban planning for the good of all. No more waiting for disasters to happen and then  to  react.