Niedrigwasser: Handelsverband will mehr Lang-Lkw für weniger Verkehrsbelastung
Der deutsche Einzelhandel warnt vor Engpässen durch extremes Niedrigwasser in Flüssen. Der HDE-Vorsitzende fordert deshalb, sogenannte Lang-Lkw ab jetzt im Regelbetrieb einzusetzen.
Low water levels in numerous German rivers are causing the retail sector to warn of potential supply chain bottlenecks. HDE CEO Stefan Genth explained that while few retail goods are transported by ship, a shift from ships to lorries and trains could create supply disruptions felt by the retail industry. Record low water levels, a result of little rainfall and high temperatures, have forced freight ships to carry only a fraction of their usual cargo.
The HDE trade association is urging the German government to permit and expand the use of longer lorries, known as Lang-Lkw. These vehicles can replace up to three conventional lorry units, reducing energy and manpower requirements, and cutting CO2 emissions by up to 25%. Genth emphasized that long lorries only travel on long-distance roads, causing no disturbance to urban traffic.
Goods would be distributed from large logistics centers using smaller vehicles. The HDE notes that special permits for Lang-Lkw have been extended temporarily but calls for a transition to permanent regulation. "Companies need planning and investment certainty," Genth stated. The ongoing trial of Lang-Lkw has demonstrated their ability to alleviate traffic congestion.
Businesses can only expand operations if they are assured of being able to use these vehicles permanently. Genth highlighted that the current situation underscores the necessity of this transportation method.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
