Upgrade of Iron Gate I (Đerdap I) navigation lock

The Đerdap I navigation lock represents an important element of the Danube river’s navigational infrastructure, as part of the international corridor Rhine–Danube. It was constructed in 1972, and since then it never underwent a full overhaul.

Performing the very demanding navigation lock operations and everyday use of the existing equipment and installations over the last 45 years — with the equipment deteriorating on a large scale — contributed to the navigation lock’s safety and reliability becoming unsustainable without major investments in maintenance. The cost of frequent and regular maintenance is considerably high, which leads to jeopardising the functioning and efficiency of the structure itself. Maintenance options are often limited, which additionally jeopardises the navigation lock’s operational reliability, performance, and safety.

The project is focused on renovating and upgrading the Đerdap I navigation lock, contributing to the modernization of the infrastructure, as well as to enable uninterrupted navigation on the Danube (Corridor VII) in full compliance with the requirements of the EU, the Danube Commission, and the standards of the Republic of Serbia.

Considering the role and importance of this structure in the territory of the Republic of Serbia, a full reconstruction is required for the damaged, while the electro-hydraulic and hydro-mechanical equipment and installations. The reconstruction itself will ensure continuous and reliable operation of the structure and uninterrupted, safe, and efficient navigation on the Danube.

The rehabilitation of the Đerdap I navigation lock will improve the stability of the conditions and the sustainability of river transport through Serbia, connecting the upstream and midstream with the downstream Danube countries. The river transport on the Serbian side of the Danube is mostly transit transport from the Black Sea to Hungary, Austria, and Germany — which is why this project will positively impact the transport costs, further contributing to the economic development at the local and regional levels. At the same time, the technology life-cycle and operability of the Đerdap I navigation lock will be ensured for the next 25 years, securing a good navigation status.