NRW Ports with Strong Handling Figures in 2021

The inland ports in NRW successfully resisted the impacts of the Corona crisis in 2021. With a water-side handling of around 37.4 million tons, the 23 logistics companies and operating companies organized in the “Working Group of Ports in North Rhine-Westphalia” reached the level before the outbreak of Corona.

(Neuss) “The year 2021 clearly shows us that we are on the right track. Compared to the previous year, the volumes were increased by over 14 percent. The member ports are very reliable partners for industry and trade, ensuring the provision of essential services as a logistics hub and supporting the economic recovery,” explains Jan Sönke Eckel, chairman of the Working Group Ports NRW. In 2020, the water-side handling was still at 32.7 million tons.

In light of the shortage of skilled workers in the transport sector – particularly among truck drivers – the importance of the efficient waterway system, including the connected rail links, is increasing even further. The advantages are clear: Goods are transported more ecologically with the sustainable transport modes of inland shipping and rail. The trimodal terminals in North Rhine-Westphalia ensure that the supply and disposal of industry and the population is secured at all times. And unlike the overcrowded roads, the capacity limits on rivers and canals have not yet been reached.

Identified Need for Political Support

In order for the ports to secure and expand their system-relevant significance, the Working Group Ports NRW sees a need for political support. There are also ongoing municipal efforts in North Rhine-Westphalia to reallocate more existing port areas for urban development projects. “The desire to utilize areas by bodies of water for urban development is quite understandable. However, it must be ensured that this does not come at the expense of port logistics – otherwise, the desired transport transition regarding sustainability and environmental protection will be undermined,” explains the chairman of the Working Group Ports NRW.

Photo: © Pascal Frai / Dortmunder Hafen AG