News / Barge operators hit by new charges as Rhine water levels sink to new lows

The Rhine in happier times Photo: Wolfgang Pehlemann

Barge operators have been hit by water levels along the Rhine being at their lowest in almost a century, following a prolonged drought.

One source told The Loadstar the water at Bingen was so low “one could cross the German river by foot, something never seen before”.

The source added: “Duisburg has been out of reach for six days, and operators have cancelled charter shipments on many barges.

“Contargo alone moves approximately 50,000 containers a month on around 40 barges, but has now been forced to reduce its ...