Efforts have been made for centuries to protect the towns along the Danube from recurring flooding. Today, flooding protection installations have improved safety enormously. All of these installations and devices have to be maintained and their safety regularly checked. In the event of a disaster, there are clearly assigned areas of responsibility and well-trained routines. Still, the functioning of the flood service depends to a great extent on the personal commitment of all persons involved.

via donau is the managing body of the Danube Flood Control Agency (DHK) for preventive and avoidance measures in the zone of DHK flood protection installations (dams, weirs, etc.) This affects structures and restoration work as well as the flood service. The flood service team secures all flood protection installations of DHK. All other flood protection installations are coordinated by the disaster service of the Länder, and the regional bodies such as flood associations are responsible for the local upkeep and operation.

via donau’s Flood Protection Service Team is responsible for some 200 km flood water protective dams, 16 bridges, 64 drains and the operating ports. Clearing construction sites in flooding outflow zones must also be organized in time. The Measurements Department of via donau continuously measure water throughput during flooding.
via donau’s flood protection service is precisely regulated. The pre-alarm state triggers a communications plan. When the “alarm” state is reached, all units are mobilised and section surveillance staff goes on duty to monitor the flood protection installations. When the “minor flood protection” state of alarm is declared, the flood protection teams go on site to the relevant risk zones to monitor the dams; the dam drains are closed; mobile flood protection units and pumping stations begin operations. In the event of the “major flood protection” state of alarm, operations run day and night to prevent dams from breaking and to be prepared to respond to anything that might happen.