Germany responds to record-low water levels

Bonn (dpa, d.de) – With water levels in the Rhine, Danube and Elbe at historic lows, the German government is seeking to mitigate the impact on the economy and supply chains. Following a high-level meeting with representatives from business and industry associations, Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger announced a series of short-term measures.

Exemptions from the ban on lorries driving on Sundays and public holidays are to be considered for particularly affected goods, allowing freight to be shifted from the rivers to the roads. At the same time, DB Cargo plans to provide additional capacity to transport more freight by rail. Avoidable motorway roadworks are also to be kept from disrupting diverted traffic wherever possible. A planned lock refurbishment on a major canal has also been postponed.

‘We can’t control the weather, but we can make sure our economy gets through these difficult weeks in better shape,’ Bilger said after the meeting.

In the longer term, infrastructure is also to be better prepared for low water levels. The meeting also focused on expanding waterways and modifying ships. Bilger stressed, however, that no measures should be implemented that would harm the environment.