Ecological disaster: Pfreimd severely damaged by renovation work

Ecological disaster: Pfreimd severely damaged by renovation work

ecological crisis in the Upper Palatinate: Refurbishment work put the Pfreimd into an emergency situation

The Pfreimd, a valuable river in the Upper Palatinate Forest, suffers considerable ecological damage due to improper renovation work at the Kainzmühlsinchen. The situation raises questions, not only about the responsibility of the power plant operators, but also about the slow reaction of the authorities.

The role of the power plant operators

Engie, the French power plant operator, is involved in the controversy around the Pfreimd. In an official message, it was believed that natural flood events would be sufficient to clean the river. However, this procedure is criticized by conservationists as inadequate and misleading. Martin Geilhufe, the state representative of the Bund Naturschutz (BN), emphasizes that the Pfreimd was transformed into a "stinking, brown sewer" by the renovation work: "The entire river bed is under water and the shores are covered with meter -high sludge deposits."

The ecological consequences for the region

The Pfreimd has changed significantly by draining huge mud masses, which endangers not only the water quality, but also the habitats of numerous water inhabitants. Almost all aquatic organisms have lost their livelihood. This is particularly alarming, since the Pfreimdtal as a Natura 2000 and FFH area is under special protection, and here is a strict prohibition of deterioration.

Responsibility and clarification by the authorities

The uncertainty about the exact protection precautions that were taken before the renovation work remains. The district office had provided ecological construction care, but information about its specific content has not yet been provided. The BN has already asked the district office to receive answers, but has so far been without feedback.

The way to restore the river ecosystem

In order to attribute the Pfreimd to its natural state, the BUND nature conservation calls for comprehensive damage report. Subsequently, a strategy is to be developed in cooperation with fishermen and nature conservation organizations to eliminate the damage. These measures are essential to bring the biological diversity back to the bank and to secure the health of the ecosystem.

protection and meaning of the Pfreimd

The Pfreimdtal, known for its untouched nature and as a hiking -friendly gold stalard, has contributed a lot to the tourist attractiveness of the region. The loss of ecological integrity could not only affect the flora and fauna, but also the quality of life of the residents and the economic stability due to the decline in tourism. It is therefore of crucial importance that quick and effective measures are taken to restore the Pfreimd.