Dangerous beauty: risks when swimming and jumping over bridges in the Neckar

Dangerous beauty: risks when swimming and jumping over bridges in the Neckar

The Neckar is not only a picturesque river in the region, but also poses numerous dangers, especially for boaters. Today the reports Bietigheim newspaper that the skipper's full concentration is required when entering and leaving locks or passing bridges. The risks are diverse and can have fatal consequences.

The presence of people in the water poses a particular danger. Unforeseeable obstacles can quickly bring ships traveling at speeds of up to 16 km/h into a critical situation. Such boats require several hundred meters to come to a stop, which severely limits their maneuverability. Losing your ability to control in an emergency is also a major risk that should not be underestimated.

Bridge jumping and invisible dangers

Another risk is jumping over bridges, which is particularly risky when the water depth is between three and five meters. Depending on the height, such jumps can result in serious or even fatal injuries. Invisible objects in the water, such as bottles or pieces of wood, are also potential sources of danger.
The water police have increased controls along the Neckar in the summer months to minimize the risk for boaters and swimmers. If the rules are violated, water sports enthusiasts must expect expulsions, warnings, fines or even criminal proceedings.

The water quality of the Neckar is another worrying issue. According to the Bietigheim newspaper High levels of faecal contamination have been found, and E. coli bacteria and noroviruses have been detected in water samples. This not only poses a health risk to swimmers, but also a risk to everyone who is active on or in the water.

Technological progress in lock technology

A positive aspect in shipping is the progressive modernization of lock technology. The PLAY BTAT has established itself as a competent partner in this area. The precise planning and coordination of electrical installations significantly improves the efficiency and reliability of lock systems. Projects such as the sheet pile lock in Datteln and the solid locks in Ahsen and Dorsten show how highly developed control and process control technology is used to increase safety.

Each lock gate is equipped with specific technological designs that include a central monitoring and remote control station. This modernized technology meets the requirements of the Machinery Directive and ensures safety-related control technology, which requires extensive documentation and careful testing. SPIE BTAT technicians have proven themselves to be competent and reliable, thereby contributing to the improvement of shipping.