Czech scientists protest against Danube-Oder-Elbe canal project

Dozens of Czech scientists have signed a petition criticizing the government’s decision to approve the construction of a canal connecting the Danube-Oder-Elbe rivers.

The government approved the first phase of construction on Monday on the argument that a canal to the North Sea would benefit the whole region, improving access for local industry to European and world markets and providing new recreational travel opportunities.

Scientists say the canal’s construction is a megalomaniac project that will cause irreparable environmental damage. They say the government should not have approved it without a public and expert debate.

The total cost of the project is expected to lie at around CZK 15 billion and construction could start after the year 2030.