Rhine reaches record low: inland navigation severely restricted
The short version
The Rhine reaches a record low in Cologne due to extreme heat and persistent drought. This severely restricts inland navigation, which leads to supply bottlenecks and economic consequences.
The Rhine reached a record low in Cologne due to extreme heat and persistent drought in Europe.1 Inland navigation on the Rhine is severely restricted, which leads to considerable economic consequences.1 In Hungary and Romania, nuclear reactors were shut down due to extremely low water levels.1
The low water levels on the Rhine have called for a task force to cope with the situation.2 Remote-controlled cargo ships are already in use on the Rhine and some canals, but only with special permits.3 The automation of inland navigation is being discussed as a possible solution to the shortage of skilled workers in the industry.3
Why it matters
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