GermanyThe Rhine River is currently at historically low water levels, significantly impacting industries in southern Baden. The IHK Südlicher Oberrhein has criticized the lack of action since the last severe low-water event in 2018, urging immediate plans to deepen shallow areas of the river. According to an IHK survey of 170 companies along the Rhine, 78% report increased costs due to low water levels, with nearly a third reducing production and six percent halting operations entirely. Over half of the surveyed companies have seen logistics costs rise by at least 25%, and nearly a third by 50% or more. Resource-intensive businesses are particularly affected, such as the Badischen Stahlwerke, which transports over 200,000 tons of materials monthly via the Rhine. The port of Kehl is also impacted, with ships arriving with much reduced cargo capacity. Energy provider EnBW faces losses from reduced hydroelectric power generation, though rail connections provide alternatives for coal supply. Farmers are also struggling with poor harvests due to dry conditions and heat.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data and quotes from various stakeholders including industry representatives, a port director, and a farmer, without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It focuses on the economic and logistical impacts of low water levels on different sectors without using
