Saxon Elbe Ports Report Positive 2024 Despite Challenges from Bridge Collapses

The nearly five-month closure of the Elbe waterway caused significant losses, but the port network managed to maintain stability and plans for recovery are underway.

• The Sächsische Binnenhäfen Oberelbe GmbH (SBO) reported a slight decline in total cargo handling for 2024, with 2.65 million tons moved, down 1.5% from 2023.
• The collapse of Dresden's Carolabrücke in September 2024 caused a five-month disruption, resulting in an estimated six-figure revenue loss for the SBO and its partners.
• Since the reopening of the Elbe in early February, three cargo ships have successfully passed under the Carolabrücke, with additional heavy transports planned for March.
• Rail freight operations saw a nearly 27% increase in 2024, while container handling rose by 2.41%; however, truck-based cargo movement dropped by over 173,000 tons.
• SBO leadership has expressed concerns about potential future closures during bridge demolitions and emphasized the need for careful scheduling to minimize further disruptions.

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Sächsische Zeitung Stern Stern