Germany news: Transport ministers to talk low river levels
Federal and state transport ministers are to discuss the challenges to river shipping as water levels drop, whilst Cabinet is to decide on reforms giving new powers to intelligence agencies. DW has more.
In Germany on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, transport ministers from state and federal governments will convene for a video conference to address the challenges posed by low river levels. Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger has emphasized the need to discuss ways to mitigate potential supply shortages, as ships are transporting less cargo due to the current water shortages.
Several states have already lifted a ban on Sunday truck use on highways to diversify cargo transport routes. Despite Bilger's assurance that there are no immediate supply shortfalls, he acknowledges the necessity of shifting cargo transport to road and rail to minimize risks to industry. The situation is expected to persist until the end of August at least, with river water levels in rivers like the Rhine continuing to decline due to the hot and dry weather.
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