A German chemical industry association is urging a stronger focus on the development of waterways, a new policy paper states. The 12-page document, sent to members of the German parliament’s transportation committee, emphasizes the importance of equal infrastructure support for all modes of transportation, including waterways.
The association, the Verband der chemischen Industrie (VCI), predicts a significant increase in transportation needs for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries in the future. Waterways, it argues, will remain a crucial transportation route, with a predicted 33% increase in usage compared to today.
The VCI is critical of the current government’s commitment to waterway development, citing the meager eight lines dedicated to the issue in the coalition agreement. The association sees great potential for the future of inland waterway transport, but notes that current infrastructure limitations, particularly on the Rhine and the need for modernization of canal networks, hinder its full potential.
The VCI is calling for the modernization of the West German canal network, including the renovation and expansion of locks, as well as the creation of additional, modern transfer points for the transfer of goods from water to road and rail. The association is also seeking financial support for the development of low-draft, modern inland waterway vessels.
The VCI is hoping to tap into the country’s infrastructure funds, but emphasizes that these funds must be used correctly, not as a substitute for regular budget allocations. Wolfgang Große Entrup, the association’s chief executive, stated, “The special fund must only be used for additional investments in the modernization of transportation infrastructure. It must not replace regular budget allocations.