Project Profile: Panama Metro Line 3 Monorail

The Panama Metro Line 3 is a landmark infrastructure project introducing Japanese-developed monorail technology to Central America. This 24.5 km elevated line is engineered to transform urban mobility for the Panamá Oeste province by providing a high-capacity transit solution across the Panama Canal. Its completion represents a significant advancement in the region’s public transportation capabilities and sustainable development.

Technical Specifications

Line 3 employs a straddle-type monorail system, a first for the region, leveraging Japanese engineering for its efficiency and resilience. The initial 24.5 km phase connects Albrook with Ciudad del Futuro via 14 elevated stations. A critical engineering challenge is the construction of a 5.3 km tunnel bored beneath the Panama Canal, designed to accommodate the monorail tracks. The rolling stock, supplied by Hitachi, consists of 28 six-car trainsets constructed from lightweight aluminum alloy. Each train has a capacity of 1,000 passengers and incorporates Hitachi’s B-CHOP (Battery-powered Charge-Holding Optimized Power) system, which utilizes regenerative braking to maximize energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Key Takeaways

• Technological Milestone: The project marks the first implementation of a large-scale Japanese monorail system in Central America, setting a new standard for public transport technology in the region.
• Complex Engineering: The 5.3 km tunnel under the Panama Canal is a significant feat of civil engineering, demonstrating advanced capabilities in overcoming complex geographical and logistical barriers.
• Socio-Economic Impact: By connecting Panamá Oeste province with the city center, Line 3 is projected to alleviate severe traffic congestion, reduce commute times for over 500,000 residents, and stimulate economic growth along the corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will Panama Metro Line 3 open?

Phase 1 of Panama Metro Line 3, connecting Albrook to Ciudad del Futuro, completed major construction in mid-2025. Following a period of systems testing and commissioning, it is scheduled to commence initial passenger operations in early 2026.

Who is building Panama Metro Line 3?

The primary construction contractor for Panama Metro Line 3 is the HPH Consortium, which includes Hyundai Engineering & Construction, POSCO, and Hyundai Engineering. Key technology, including the monorail vehicles and integrated control systems, is supplied by a Japanese consortium led by Hitachi and Mitsubishi Corporation.