Mannheim is prepared: new security measures started on the Rheindamm!

Mannheim is prepared: new security measures started on the Rheindamm!

The Rhein Hochwasserdamm (RHWD XXXIX) in Mannheim is faced with comprehensive retraining measures that are driven by the state company Waters in the Karlsruhe Regional Council (LBG). This was recently announced in a press release. The planning documents are currently on the table, but there is still a lot to clarify and coordinate.

A central element of the planning is the testing of an overflow -proof building, which is to be realized in the form of a static self -supporting sheet pile with a dam defense path on the dam crown. In order to assess the effects of this structure on the groundwater, several wells were drilled next to the dam. This is necessary to determine the depth of the sheet pile wall so that the natural groundwater flow is not affected. The pump attempts at eight fountains are currently going into the first phase and have been in full swing since June 30, 2025.

important explorations

Responsible for the well drilling are two teams who work in the northern and southern section of the dam. The soil explorations had originally been supposed to begin in November 2024, but they were delayed by longer ordinary investigations until mid -January 2025. From March to autumn 2025, pump tests in neighboring areas will continue. It is also taken care of protecting the tree population. GDS Neckarau reports that excavation work are interpreted during this development work to minimize the pressure on the roots of the trees.

Sascha Jillich, a publicly ordered and sworn tree appraiser, will accompany the examinations and make a recommendation which trees may be preserved and which may need to be removed. These experts will work in close cooperation with the environmental office of the city of Mannheim.

The importance of the dammering

The entire project is part of a larger program for leaving a dam in Baden-Württemberg, which aims to increase flood security. According to the flood protection authority there are around 1,000 kilometers of state protective dams that protect millions of people from flooding. However, many of these dams have an age of over 70 years and show signs of wear. Therefore, the comprehensive renovation, which takes place in the course of the dammering program, is of great relevance.

The entire upgrading will extend over several years and requires an investment requirement of around 545 million euros. The geotechnical condition of the dams and the safety of the shelters are continuously assessed and prioritized.

The pump attempts last about a week on every fountain, which includes a period of about eight weeks. During this time, the path across the dam is still passable, but passers -by is advised to go caution there because construction vehicles are in use. For the population in Mannheim, the ability to do so is not only a necessary infrastructure project, but also a significant contribution to security against the frequent flood events in the region.

All in all, it remains to be seen how the construction work develop in detail, but those responsible have a good sense of the needs on site.