Wisła shipping canal plans detailed -- PM's office
12:37
A draft law, which details plans for the waterway connecting the Wisła River Lagoon to the Baltic Sea, has been submitted to Poland's main legislature, the Prime Minister's Office reported to the press on Thursday. The draft stated that construction work will begin in 2018, and the total cost will be approximately PLN 880 million. The draft law contains specific details on the environmental conditions, procurement rules for investors in the project and dates for obtaining permits for investment, granting of water permits and property compensation, the press report stated.
The construction of the canal is opposed by some environmental groups and local citizens due their concern that its construction might damage the ecological sensitivity of the lagoon, which is a crucial breeding and transit area for unique wildlife species. Proponents claim it is necessary for increasing marine commerce between ports such as Elbląg, and that it is necessary for national defense and security purposes.
