ports

Rhine River Barge Traffic Grinds Near Standstill as Water Levels Plummet

Dangerously low water levels on the Rhine River have brought inland barge operations to the brink of collapse, with forecasts offering little relief through the week ahead. Contargo reported water depths at all four major gauges sitting between 10% and 64% below minimum navigable thresholds. The Emmerich and Kaub gauges registered just 13cm and 29cm respectively—levels where maximum low-water surcharges apply. While some specialized low-water vessels continue limited operations, barge operators face mounting economic pressures. Shippers have already absorbed weeks of surcharge costs and now confront potential traffic halts. Individual vessel operators must balance safety and profitability when deciding whether to operate, with little improvement expected in coming days as temperatures are forecast to spike.