Panama receives bids for three basic water, sanitation projects

The Panamanian government has received bids on tenders for three projects as part of the national government's basic sanitation program known as 100/0, whose goal is to reach 100% potable water coverage and zero open-pit latrines.

Works will include the construction, operation and maintenance of three sewage, wastewater treatment and potable water systems in the provinces of Chiriquí, Darién and Chepo.

"The development of these basic sanitation and potable water works will have a great impact both on the economy and the quality of life of the communities of more than 140,317 residents," explained Panamanian president Juan Carlos Varela in an official statement.

Total estimated investments in the three projects were outlined by authotities at more than 400mn balboas (US$400mn) and the works are expected to create 3,000 jobs.

THE THREE TENDERS

The first bid received were for the study, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the sanitary sewage system and waste water treatment of the city of David and the surrounding area."

The tender process was undertaken in two stages. For the first stage five consortiums made bids ranging from 197.3mn balboas to 120.7mn balboas. While bids were received from another five consortiums for the second stage, between 99.5mn balboas and 90.3mn balboas.

The project will benefit 100,600 residents.

The second tender was for the improvement and expansion of the potable water plant in Villa Darién in Darién province, which will supply potable water to more than 14,300 people.

Bids were made by three companies including PTA Darién 2016 for 32.8mn balboas, Villa Darién for 33.6mn and Constructora Meco for 34.1mn balboas.

Expansion of the local potable water plant will allow the production of an additional 1.5mn gallons of water per day, giving a daily total of 3mn gallons.

The third and final tender was for the study, design, construction, operation and maintenance of the sewage system and waste water treatment in Chepo, Panamá province, which will benefit 25,400 residents.

Only one offer was made for the project, by consortium Cocige Resol, for 82,8mn balboas.

The government plans to execute 208 projects on basic sanitation infrastructure and potable water at the national level as part of the 2014-2019 plan for the sector.