Panama City, Full Speed Ahead Towards a More Sustainable Metropolis

Panama City has a metropolitan area with 2 million inhabitants spread across 2,500 square kilometres. Authorities needed to develop a Metro system that would address traffic congestion and urban policy sustainably. The Panama Metro is part of a major “National Master Plan” to improve transportation between the City and the west side of the country.

Managed by Metro de Panama S.A., this metro will transform Panama. Serving as the first metro system in Central America, it currently has 30 stations across two lines in operation, totalling 37 kilometres. The construction of the third line is now underway, and Ayesa has played a significant part in developing Lines 1 and 2 since 2010.

The Panama Metro has impressive passenger capacities designed to accommodate a large volume of commuters. Line 1 can transport around 250,000 passengers daily, while Line 2 carries approximately 400,000 commuters daily. By providing a reliable and efficient mode of transportation, the metro system helps alleviate traffic congestion in the city, stimulates balanced growth and renewal, reduces pollution and CO2 emissions, and improves connectivity. Construction on Line 3 (a monorail) started in 2021 and is expected to finish by 2025.

In December 2010, Ayesa, in partnership with Transporte Metropolitano de Barcelona (TMB) and the Venezuelan company Inelectra, successfully secured the project management (PM) contract for Line 1 of the Panama Metro. The responsibilities included design supervision, supply supervision, construction, and commissioning by May 2013. Ayesa also assisted Metro de Panama in establishing training, and supporting management and operations until 2017.

Line 1, inaugurated in 2014, spans approximately 15.9 kilometres, connecting the northwest to the city’s southeast. It has 15 stations, including seven underground, six elevated, and one semi-underground station. Line 1 operates a fleet of 19 Alstom 900 model trains, each consisting of three cars. The metro stations have air-conditioning, video surveillance, passenger information systems, wheelchair accessibility (including lifts), fire safety and electronic ticketing systems.

In 2014, the Secretariat of the Panama Metro awarded the contract for project management (PM) services including interface coordination and technical assistance in the construction and commissioning of Line 2 of Metro to the PML2 consortium, (led by Ayesa in partnership with the Louis Berger Group.) This contract included the supply of rolling stock, testing, and operation of the lines. During the contract, The consortium’s project management services covered all aspects and requirements of the public company, including the establishment of the operational transport body and ensuring its smooth operation. Flexibility was key when Ayesa seconded its technical and operational personnel into Metro de Panama’s team, actively supporting them until a transportation body was established in 2015.

Line 2, operational since 2019, covers a distance of 21 kilometres with 16 elevated stations. It extends towards the new Tocumen International Airport through a 2-kilometre connecting branch. Line 2 has a fleet of 21 trains, each comprising five cars.

Ayesa made significant contributions to the Panama Metro project, particularly for Lines 1 and 2. Our involvement included a wide range of works and services, with a focus on ensuring environmental compliance. We provided supervision and advisory services to ensure adherence to environmental legislation, including conducting an Environmental Impact Study, obtaining necessary approvals, and developing an Environmental Management Plan. Our environmental advisory and control work aligned with the Works Control Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and was integral to the Environmental Impact Study (EIS).

Another noteworthy achievement was the successful implementation of the Operational and Administrative Management System for the Metro. Ayesa deployed a SAP-based ERP system that covered finance, procurement, maintenance, and human resources functions. The system streamlined financial management, procurement and warehouse operations, maintenance management, and human resources tasks.

Ayesa implemented the SAP ERP system and provided ongoing support, maintenance, and system enhancements since December 2015. We followed the ASAP methodology, which involved five implementation phases: initial preparation, business blueprint, realization, final preparation, and go-live & support.

Ayesa’s involvement in the projects brought several benefits:

• Expertise and Experience: Ayesa, with its extensive experience in infrastructure projects, provided valuable expertise in managing complex transportation systems.
• Seamless Coordination: Ayesa facilitated smooth coordination among different stakeholders, including contractors, suppliers, and government authorities. This ensured project progress, timely decision-making, and effective communication.
• Efficient Resource Allocation: Ayesa’s expertise in resource management allowed for efficient allocation of manpower, equipment, and materials. This optimization minimized costs, reduced wastage, and enhanced overall project efficiency.
• Quality Control: Ayesa’s PM Services implemented stringent quality control measures, ensuring the metro system met international standards for safety and passenger comfort.
• Timely Project Delivery: Ayesa’s project management capabilities played a crucial role in ensuring the metro lines were delivered on time, within a record timeframe of 38 months from start to construction, and under budget. Adherence to project timelines and effective scheduling prevented delays and expedited the construction process, enabling the metro system to serve the public within planned timeframes.

The Panama Metro has delivered numerous benefits to the city and its residents. It has greatly improved transportation options, reducing travel times and alleviating traffic congestion. The metro system has also contributed to the city’s economic development, attracting investments and promoting urban growth along its routes. Additionally, it has improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions by encouraging the use of public transportation.
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