Germany may dump acid in Rhine

[News_Editor]

Germany may dump acid in Rhine

2011-01-20 10:32:56 GMT+7 (ICT)

BERLIN (BNO NEWS) -- German authorities warned Wednesday they might have to dump 2,400 tons of acid into the Rhine river as traffic remains blocked after a ship capsized, DPA news agency reported.

This is the worst-case scenario, according to officials, since it might be impossible to pump the sulphuric acid cargo out before the ship is raised.

In that case, the acid will be deliberately spilled into the river at the rate of 50 litres per second from each of the seven tanks. The acid will supposedly dilute quickly because 4 million liters of water per second flow past the wreck.

"A few metres downstream, it will be barely noticeable," Roger Lewentz, a state official, said.

Three huge floating cranes to raise the ship so its cargo can be pumped out to other vessels are not due on the scene until Saturday.

At least 250 boats are currently waiting to pass. Rhine river connects the Dutch seaport of Rotterdam to five nations.

The German-flagged vessel, the Waldhof, sank last week and two crew members went missing.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2011-01-20