During the construction of the Betuwe Route, it was decided that in the event of an emergency, the fire department would obtain water from specially constructed firewater channels. ProRail ensures that these firewater channels will be restored to their original condition. It is crucial that before the start of dredging activities in Priority Area 1 (approximately 17 km) and the rest of the Betuwe Route, an ecological quick scan is conducted, and the soil dimensions are measured.
An attempt was made to dredge in Priority Area 1 in 2023, but the ecological quick scan carried out revealed that further investigation is required. Due to the season, this investigation can only be conducted between April and August 2024. Depending on the results and the ecological management measures that need to be taken, the goal is to commence dredging in 2024.
Cleaning
ProRail is also undertaking the cleaning (‘mowing’) project of the firewater channels. The ecologist has indicated that cleaning in the fall is ecologically responsible. The contractor will carry out the finalizing activities in the coming week
