14:25 15 August 2026
Economic situation in Germany reaching new lows with water levels
Water levels on the Rhine have fallen to historic lows, with the gauge at Kaub recording single-digit readings for the first time. German steel and recycling organizations warn that prolonged low water threatens supply chains and industrial competitiveness. Inland waterways carry about one-third of Germany’s steel transport, or roughly 38 mln tons annually. If river shipping becomes impossible, much of this volume would have to shift to rail and roads, increasing pressure on already strained infrastructure. Industry groups say companies have expanded storage and made logistics more flexible, but cannot compensate for infrastructure shortcomings.
A long-planned project to improve navigation near Kaub is estimated to cost €225 mln and may not be completed until 2033.
(wnp.pl)
