A prominent German lawmaker is raising concerns about insufficient investment in the country’s inland waterways, despite the existence of a special fund designed for infrastructure improvements. Stephan Stracke, deputy parliamentary group leader for the Christian Social Union (CSU), stated that waterways are currently receiving limited funding from the dedicated infrastructure fund, a situation he deems unacceptable. He emphasized the crucial role of waterways alongside road, rail and air transport in supporting the German economy.
Stracke indicated his intention to advocate for increased funding during upcoming budget negotiations, aiming to address the significant modernization needs of the country’s canals and rivers. He warned that, under the current plans, all modes of transport risk being underfunded, despite the special fund’s existence.
The call for investment is backed by industry representatives and other political figures. The German chemical industry association (VCI) highlighted the impact of low water levels – particularly on the Rhine – and deteriorating infrastructure on the reliability of inland shipping, a vital transportation method for its members. The VCI urged immediate investment to prevent further degradation of this critical infrastructure.
Tarek Al-Wazir, a Green party politician focused on transport policy, echoed these concerns, stating that unreliable waterways diminish Germany’s attractiveness as a business location. He noted that current budgetary provisions are insufficient even to cover essential repair work. This debate comes as the governing coalition pledged in its agreement to prioritize investment in waterways, underscoring the growing pressure to deliver on that commitment.