Water levels in Germany’s biggest river, the Rhine, are lowering due to an extended drought period. As a result, shipping companies are preparing to halt the conveyance of goods. This will have a significant impact on Europe’s economy, as the Rhine is a major trade route for the continent. The Rhine is the most important river for the transport of fuel and other industrial goods.
On Saturday afternoon, the water level caused a hindrance to the transport operations on the Middle Rhine near Kaub town. The official gauge measured the level at 37 centimetres while the minimum required for big ships to pass is 40 centimetres.
On the other hand, the depth of the shipping lane in Kaub was still about 150 centimetres (59 inches). Experts say that passage becomes tricky even for light or specially adapted cargo ships if the water level falls below 35 centimetres. A reading below 30 centimetres (11.8 inches) is considered an obstruction to the passage.
After examining, the Shipping authority estimated that the point will be reached by early next week. Moreover, they aren’t sure whether water levels will reach the record low of 25 centimetres that was recorded at the Kaub gauge in October 2018. Contargo, a logistics company, stated on Friday that it was readying to discontinue shipping on the Upper and Middle Rhine for security reasons. In addition, it intends to move some of its cargo onto trucks. Although road and rail freight capacity is restricted.
The potential consequences of a stoppage in shipping on the Rhine River include delays and shortages for companies relying on ships to transport raw materials and finished goods. Additionally, gas stations and coal-fired power plants could experience supply shortages. Although meteorologists are predicting rain soon, it is unclear if the precipitation will be adequate to prevent water levels from dropping below risky levels.