Above-average water levels in the River Rhine have caused transportation problems for some European crushing companies, as reported by AgriCensus.
At the Kaub bottleneck, water levels were recorded at 521 cm, significantly higher than average, causing logistical problems, as noted in the November 21 report.
“Barges are finding it difficult to dock as the berths are covered in water,” a source told AgriCensus, adding that some vessels were having difficulty passing under the bridges due to high water levels.
On November 20, records indicated water levels of 760 cm in Maxau on the Upper Rhine, impeding shipping in the region, as highlighted in the report.
Varied concerns in the German crushing sector due to navigation restrictions on the River Rhine
According to the document, industry opinions varied on the impact this could have on the crushing sector, which, like many German sectors, uses the Rhine to transport goods to and from factories.
“We observed problems, but not serious yet, more like delays,” said a source.
“For our trade chain, trucks and trains also carry a lot of it, so it’s not completely reliant on barges, but obviously that’s a concern.”
Other sources were not as concerned. One of them informed AgriCensus that “it does not anticipate major problems for German milling”. This is due to the fact that most of the German milling sector is located further north along the River Rhine.
Drier Conditions and Low Water Levels Forecast Impact River Navigation
The local Wetterdienst meteorologist predicted drier conditions for the reporting week. November was wet, with some regions receiving twice the average rainfall.
At the time of the report, ELWIS predicted lower water levels until November 23. At Kaub, levels should range from 472 cm to 508 cm.
In recent years, low water levels have impacted logistics on the Rhine. Last dry summer this caused significant disruption. Loaded ships were at risk of scraping the bottom or running aground, AgriCensus reported.
Source: Oils & Fats International
