Darien Gap

 

Darien Gap

Why In News:

Illegal immigration’s rise in the Darien gap region which connects northern Colombia and southern Panama can be an issue of caution for the region.

What is Darien Gap?

*       The Darién Gap is a rugged region in the Isthmus of Darién, connecting Central and South America. It comprises dense forests and mountains in Panama’s Darién Province and Colombia’s Chocó Department.

*       Home to indigenous communities, the terrain varies from flat marshlands to mountainous rainforests. With no roads crossing it, travel is challenging and often conducted by boat or on foot.

*       Despite the dangers, increasing violence and limited legal immigration options in their home countries have driven a surge in crossings, primarily by Venezuelans but also by Haitians, Chinese, Afghans, and others.