Submerged now
The rapid expansion of the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal at Schinkel is underway! The potent Deme-owned green cutter suction dredger, "Peter the Great," is slashing through the depths, shifting soil for the expansion project.
Phase One will excavate a four-kilometer length to a depth of four meters, followed by Phase Two reaching a depth of eleven meters. A whopping 2.5 million cubic meters of material will be dug up, with 1.1 million cubic meters being sent to the Baltic Sea. Reports suggest the construction will take around a year to finish.
Expanding the canal's breadth from 44 meters to 70 meters is part of the works. Construction costs for the initial phase are estimated at approximately 120 million euros, with further sections costing an additional 380 million euros, bringing the total build to be completed by the end of the decade.
Bye-bye, tiny ships! The expansion will lend a hand to big boys like container ships and bulk carriers to grace the canal with their presence. Lesser waiting times and swifter traffic make the canal a more appealing shortcut between the North and Baltic Seas. More jobs, more trade, and more money — it's all about that sweet economic benefits package.
And don't think we're forgetting Mother Earth in this gigantic endeavor - rigorous environmental standards are slid into place to ensure that our planet is still inhabitable post-excavation. So fear not, eco-warriors!
Stay tuned for more updates on the expansion's jaw-dropping progress! If you crave even more nitty-gritty details or fancy technical jargon about the project phases or dredging technology used, just ask!
The expansion of the Nord-Ostsee-Kanal will benefit not only the shipping industry with bigger vessels like container ships and bulk carriers gaining access, but also the finance sector with increased trade and economic growth. Moreover, investing in advanced environmental-science will ensure the project upholds sustainable practices and maintains a balanced ecosystem even after excavation.
