Two boat collisions in 24 hours highlight the importance of resilient hydraulic structures | Deltares

These incidents demonstrate the vulnerability of our vital hydraulic engineering structures. Bridges, locks and dams are very important links in the Dutch waterway network. Damage to these ‘works of art’ can block shipping routes for weeks or even months, with major consequences for shipping. This not only leads to economic losses through higher transport costs, but also affects ordinary citizens through rising prices of goods and disruptions in rail and road connections.

Pressure on our water infrastructure is increasing due to more intensive shipping traffic and more extreme weather. Hydraulic engineering structures must therefore not only withstand current demands, but also be prepared for future challenges.

Making an impact with knowledge

At Deltares, we work on innovative solutions to make our hydraulic structures even more resistant to collisions and other calamities. Recent research, such as the project at the Sambeek lock, is helping to make locks, dams and bridges safer and more future-proof.

The risk of collisions is a major threat to water safety in the Netherlands, says Migena Zagonjolli, expert on river and inland navigation at Deltares. ‘There is therefore a need for new information to decide how renovation, maintenance or new construction of locks can be approached smarter and more efficiently.’

Also through the Kennis Programma Natte Kunstwerken (KpNK) we unlock knowledge about when a structure should be replaced or renovated, what replacement and renovation options might look like, how to compare them and how to take future developments into account.

In a country largely below sea level, water safety remains one of the top priorities. Incidents like last weekend’s make it clear that reinforced hydraulic structures are important to keep our economy running and the Netherlands dry.