Low Danube water levels disrupt Romanian border ferry and road traffic

The Danube’s water level in Romania has fallen well below the critical flow of 2,300 m³/s, reaching about 2,100 m³/s at Bechet and 2,050 m³/s at Baziaș. The reduced discharge forced the suspension of the Bechet–Vidin ferry, a key crossing that shortens trips to Bulgaria and Greece by roughly 100 km. Drivers must now use longer detours such as the Calafat–Vidin bridge, raising transport times and costs. Hydrologists from the National Institute of Hydrology warn the flow could drop to 1,850 m³/s by mid‑July, well under the July long‑term average of 4,700 m³/s, and may stay at that level for several days. While the Galaţi crossing remains open, vessels face longer routes and higher expenses. Authorities advise travelers to choose alternative routes and monitor the situation as the low‑water regime persists.