Low water levels in Ukraine’s rivers are significantly affecting navigation on the Danube, where transportation has been temporarily suspended since August 1 due to low water levels. This was reported by Bohdan Hevko, president of the “Association of Motor Transport of Ukraine,” in his article “Exports and Imports Amid the Transportation Crisis.”
According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, the average monthly water flow on the Ukrainian section of the Danube in August was only 34–42% of the August norm. However, navigation resumed in September, albeit with new challenges.
On September 23, Reuters reported changes in the procedures for clearing ships to pass through the Sulina Canal, where waiting times exceeded two weeks. Increased traffic, complex clearance procedures, and a shortage of pilots were the main causes of the delays.
An expert emphasizes that the restrictions on the Danube are caused not only by shallowing but also by other factors. However, hydrological conditions have a direct economic impact, as reduced water depth limits a vessel’s draft and cargo capacity, leading to higher transportation costs.
Gevko notes that permissible vessel loading must be determined in accordance with current navigational bulletins, since water depth is not the sole criterion for determining draft. In September, the Danube Commission discussed adapting navigation to record-low summer water levels.
Among the proposed measures to improve the situation are monitoring shallow sections, maintaining the fairway, dredging, and better coordination between authorities and carriers. This underscores the need to develop the Danube route as an alternative, given its seasonal and technical limitations.
