Pro Danube's participation at the recent EUSDR PA1a Steering Group Meeting ensured that the concerns and requirements of the sector on crucial issues that impact their daily operations are heard. One of the focal points of the recent meeting referred to the impact of low water levels on the Danube. Our association has consistently advocated for the implementation of proper dredging works along the Danube, with a keen eye on the critical sections of the river and its navigable tributaries. The low water levels on certain sections of the Danube have had a substantial impact on the economic activities of the businesses operating on the Danube, making them less efficient and sometimes even disrupting essential transportation routes. It is imperative to understand that dredging is a vital solution to mitigate these challenges. The "Cooperative Fairway Management" initiative championed by Pro Danube several times during the last years emphasizes the necessity of collaborative efforts among the responsible authorities. In this context, securing adequate dredging works isn't just a matter of improving the waterway but ensuring the very economic viability of the sector. Through cooperation and a shared commitment to addressing the issue of low water levels, Pro Danube is striving to make a meaningful difference.
The status of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) Revision was another significant item on the meeting's agenda. The TEN-T network plays a pivotal role in supporting European transport infrastructure, and its revision holds the potential to significantly impact the Danube IWT sector. Furthermore, preparations for the Danube Ministerial Conclusions 2024 were discussed. These conclusions are anticipated to be signed in the framework of the Connecting Europe Days in Brussels the following year, and they hold substantial relevance for the future of the Danube IWT industry.
Greening of the fleet was another "hot topic" on the agenda of the meeting. A commitment to greener practices is crucial, given the ambitious goals set forth in the European Green Deal. It is the perspective of Pro Danube that the greening of the fleet should go hand-in-hand with economic viability. This approach ensures that businesses operating on the Danube can adapt to the stringent environmental standards while maintaining their financial stability. Pro Danube reiterated the fact that the greening of the fleet is not only a path to sustainability but also a means to secure a prosperous future for the Danube IWT community.
By aligning with the goals of the European Green Deal, the IWT sector can contribute to the ultimate aim: achieving a climate-neutral transport system. With its well-known advantages, the IWT sector remains an indispensable component in reaching this milestone.