Danube Inland Navigation as a Strategic Corridor for Ukraine’s Post-Conflict Industrial Recovery

Abstract

Background: Inland waterway transport is characterised by its large loading capacity, low transport costs, and minimal negative environmental impact. Inland navigation is often the first choice as an alternative to special transport of goods, such as various oversized units and high-volume production. The countries of Central Europe, especially those in the Danube region, which is traditionally linked to water transport, with the largest and most important river in Central and Southern Europe, have seen a significant decline in inland waterway freight transport over the last decade. Methods: Therefore, the most up-to-date, publicly available, open-source statistical data were collected and analysed. Water transport will play an irreplaceable role in the post-conflict reconstruction of Ukraine and its industry. Results: Ukraine maintains the same position, although the military conflict profoundly impacts Danube traffic. Conclusions: The possibility and potential for restoring large areas of land, utilising inland water transport, and combining suitable types of goods and means of transport will increase the volume of goods on the Danube and its importance as a transport artery. Of course, this is subject to the conditions of long-term sustainability.

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