Faster-than-Expected Repairs
Initially, experts estimated that the lock would remain closed until the end of March following the accident on December 8. However, intensive repair efforts allowed the reopening nearly two months ahead of schedule. Work was conducted around the clock, with 16 employees from the Trier building yard dedicating a total of 1,600 hours to reconstruct the two gate wings.
Economic and Logistical Impact
The lock closure caused significant disruption to shipping traffic, leaving around 70 vessels stranded on the Moselle. These ships were gradually moved through an emergency lock to maintain operations as much as possible. The closure also raised concerns within the regional economy, which relies on the river for freight transport.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident. The public prosecutor's office in Koblenz has launched an inquiry into a 27-year-old man suspected of endangering shipping traffic.
Regional Reactions
Neighboring Luxembourg welcomed the reopening of the Moselle. Yuriko Backes, Luxembourg’s Minister for Mobility and Public Works, praised the "excellent cooperation" among all parties involved in the repair efforts, which facilitated the early resumption of navigation.
