The low water situation on the Rhine has become critical once again. The official gauge at Kaub stood at minus 2 centimeters on September 27th. The following day, approximately 3 centimeters were recorded again. Kaub is particularly important for freight shipping because the shallow Middle Rhine section determines the possible cargo capacity of many vessels.
The gauge reading is often misunderstood. Zero centimeters on the gauge does not mean zero centimeters of water in the river. The gauge zero point is a defined reference height. Captains and shipping companies use this together with vessel data to determine how much draft is still possible.
In practical terms, the current situation means: vessels can continue operation in some cases, but must carry significantly less cargo. For the same quantity of goods, more trips or additional vessels are required. This increases the cost of transporting mineral oil, chemicals, construction materials, and containers. Low water surcharges are also becoming more likely.
For Switzerland, this issue is particularly sensitive. A large portion of imported goods for the Basel region comes via the Rhine. When barges can carry less, pressure increases on rail terminals and truck capacity. This is compounded by possible waiting times at transshipment facilities and tank storage terminals.