Mosel Shipping Halted After Damaging Lock Collision

A ship collision at the Müden lock has stranded 70 vessels, disrupting transport, tourism, and regional industries.

A cargo ship collided with the Müden lock on the Mosel River, severely damaging both gate flaps and hydraulic systems, likely due to a technical defect under investigation.
Approximately 70 ships, including cargo and cruise vessels, are stranded on the Mosel and Saar rivers, with no immediate solution for their passage.
The lock's repair is expected to take until at least late March 2025, with efforts underway to assess damage and explore temporary solutions for stranded vessels.
The disruption has significant economic consequences, with companies incurring millions in additional costs to reroute goods via road and rail, impacting industries like steel production.
Tourism is also affected, as cruise operators reroute or cancel itineraries, though officials anticipate minimal impact on the 2025 peak season starting in April.