Parts of Germany's Rhine becoming unnavigable as water levels drop

Parts of Germany's Rhine river are at risk of becoming un-navigable due to dangerously low water levels, an industry group has warned. Scorching summer temperatures and minimal rainfall have caused water levels to plummet to record lows since late July. While cargo ships have been able to continue transporting goods along the crucial waterway, linking industrial regions across Europe, the situation is expected to worsen.

The Rhine's navigability will soon be divided, with commercial shipping no longer possible in parts of Germany, according to the BDB association of inland shipping. The group's managing director, Jens Schwanen, stated that water levels at the town of Kaub, a key reference point, will continue to fall. The Rhine, which originates in the Swiss Alps and flows through several countries before emptying into the North Sea, is already facing challenges.

German companies like Thyssenkrupp and BASF have already switched to shallow-draft ships to adapt to the current conditions, but a complete halt to shipping on parts of the Rhine would significantly impact Germany's economy. The government is closely monitoring the situation and has agreed to temporarily lift restrictions on truck traffic on Sundays and public holidays to support affected businesses.