Dutch infrastructure faces disruptions from bridge closures and drought

Infrastructure and transport services in the Netherlands are facing disruptions due to bridge closures and prolonged drought. In the Krimpenerwaard region, the Veerdienst Krimpen is increasing capacity to manage expected traffic surges caused by the closure of the Algerabrug. To mitigate congestion, a second ferry will operate during weekday rush hours (06:00–10:00 and 15:00–20:00). Rijkswaterstaat has deployed traffic controllers to manage flows, particularly near Kinderdijk where narrow roads pose a risk of bottlenecks.

Simultaneously, persistent drought has forced extended closures of the Oostsluis lock in Terneuzen. Since early July, locks have been restricted during low tide on the Westerschelde to conserve water. The Gent-Terneuzen Canal, which relies on rainwater from the Flemish and French hinterlands, faces declining levels due to lack of precipitation. While using salt water from the Westerschelde has been proposed as a long-term solution to maintain canal levels, environmental protections for the freshwater nature of the Moervaart must be addressed before such measures can be implemented.