Two Dutch companies say they have been awarded a US$720,000 (EURO 587,000) contract by the Nicaraguan government to study the feasibility of building a rival to the Panama canal that would travel through Nicaragua and Costa Rica.
Since the early 1800s, the so-called "Nicaragua
Canal" has been considered a serious possibility as a route that could
link the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, though the Panama Canal ultimately
won out. Some experts believe the growth of global shipping means that two
canals through Central America would benefit the industry, especially if a
Nicaragua Canal could accommodate larger ships.
Infrastructure company Royal Haaskoning DHV and Ecorys
said Monday they will complete their study by early 2013. The Nicaraguan
government has loosely estimated construction costs at $20 billion and would
seek international investors.
