Kathmandu— The Danube River, the second longest in Europe, has reached record-low water levels due to drought, revealing the hulks of dozens of World War II German battleships. The sight is a stark reminder of historical conflicts and current environmental challenges as governments across Central and Eastern Europe grapple with power plant shutdowns and shipping disruptions.

Historical Remnants Emerge

Water levels on the Danube River have dropped so low that the hulks of dozens of World War II German battleships are now visible. These ships, some still laden with weapons, were deliberately sunk by Nazi Germany’s Black Sea fleet as they retreated from Romania and Soviet forces advanced in September 1944. Historians estimate up to 200 warships were scuttled near Prahovo in the Danube gorge.

The sight of these old warships is a poignant reminder of past conflicts, but also highlights current environmental concerns. The Serbian government has long sought ways to address the issue, with some ships removed by Communist Yugoslav authorities, while most remain due to the explosives they carried.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The dropping water levels on the Danube have forced power plants to the brink of shutting down, prompting governments across Central and Eastern Europe to take steps to conserve electricity. In Prahovo, a rusty hull is now visible along with a broken mast where the Nazi flag once flew.

Krsta Brandic, a resident of Prahovo, noted that ship traffic has almost come to a halt: “As you can see, the big ships can’t pass anymore.” Experts link the unusually hot weather and low water levels to global warming and other factors.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.