A crucial European waterway is approaching a point where one shallow section could divide the route and disrupt regional supply chains.
Record-low water levels on the Rhine in the coming days could virtually halt cargo shipping along its central stretch in Germany. If water levels continue to fall, one of Europe’s main inland waterways will effectively split into two separate navigable zones.
The most difficult situation is developing near the Kaub gauging station, located between Koblenz and Mainz. This stretch of the Rhine has traditionally been considered one of the shallowest for vessel passage.
Due to the lack of rainfall over the past week, a single-digit water level is being forecast for the first time at the Kaub gauging station, which is crucial for shipping and the economy. In effect, the Rhine will no longer be navigable along its entire length and will be split into two parts.
– Jens Schwanen, head of the Federal Association of German Inland Navigation (BDB)
Shipping on the Rhine could come to a halt near Kaub
At critically low water levels, cargo vessels will be unable to transport goods through the Kaub area. The restrictions could affect not only commercial transport but also day-trip tourist and cruise services.
The northern section of the river route may remain accessible. Vessels will be able to operate between the North Sea ports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Antwerp and the Cologne area. Traffic along western Germany’s canal network will also continue.
Navigation on the Rhine up to the Moselle’s confluence, as well as traffic on the Moselle itself, is also expected to remain possible. However, vessels will not be able to cross the problematic central section of the Rhine.
The Upper Rhine and the route to the Danube remain accessible
South of Kaub, shipping is likely to continue on the Upper Rhine. The waterway via the Main River and the Main-Danube Canal will allow connections with the Danube and the countries of Southeastern Europe to be maintained.
The prolonged drought has already affected water levels in Germany’s largest rivers. In North Rhine-Westphalia, the Rhine has reached historically low levels, creating growing difficulties for logistics, industry, and passenger shipping.