Current status: Partial closure
Last updated: 10 April 2026
Situation overview
Cleanup operations on the Scheldt River are progressing well, and the Joint Nautical Authority has reopened the river to navigation.
Traffic has resumed on the Scheldt; however, several operational restrictions remain in place and congestion is expected as backlogs are cleared.
Operational status by area
Scheldt River
- Open to navigation.
- Contaminated vessels are not permitted to sail, which may affect berth availability.
Locks and docks
- Berendrechtsluis: Closed pending completion of cleaning operations.
- Zandvlietsluis: Closed pending completion of cleaning operations.
- Deurganckdok: Closed to traffic. Timing remains uncertain.
- Kalloslock: Operational.
Very limited seagoing traffic in and out of the right bank is currently possible.
Operational impact
- Vessel movements remain constrained due to lock closures and contamination controls.
- Berth availability may be impacted where affected vessels are unable to sail.
- A significant traffic backlog is expected and will take time to clear.