In response to critically low water levels affecting major rivers in Germany, Transport Minister Steffen Bilger is pushing for the expansion of waterways to enhance reliability for inland shipping. Environmentalists, however, express concerns over the ecological impact of such developments.

Transport Minister Steffen Bilger has called for the expansion of Germany’s rivers to address the ongoing challenges posed by low water levels. He emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable waterways, stating that the inland shipping sector can only thrive if it is not frequently hindered by drought conditions. Bilger’s remarks come as the Rhine River experiences historic low water levels, significantly impacting shipping operations.

Bilger highlighted that the waterways deserve support as they represent the most environmentally friendly mode of transport. He plans to engage in discussions with environmental organizations to address their concerns regarding the proposed river expansions. Critics argue that such developments could harm the natural ecosystems of the rivers, advocating instead for the preservation of vibrant waterways.

In addition to advocating for river expansion, Bilger supports maintaining full funding for low-water vessels, which had previously faced budget cuts. He assured that this issue would be brought up during parliamentary budget discussions. As the government seeks to navigate the complexities of European regulations, Bilger aims to ensure that funding for these vessels continues without unnecessary delays, as the shipping industry grapples with the challenges of reduced cargo capacity due to low water levels.