Rhine bathing bans show deterrent effect as fines and outreach cut violations

Bathing bans along the Rhine are showing the desired deterrent effect, according to municipalities, with a combination of controls, fines, and public outreach successfully discouraging people from swimming in the river. Cologne reported 106 violations this year, issuing 69 fines up to 250 euros. Düsseldorf conducted around 4,100 preventive talks and 125 penalty proceedings, with the highest fine reaching 800 euros, mostly involving men aged 20 to 25. Leverkusen issued six fines totaling about 2,000 euros, while Krefeld recorded no violations. The bans, introduced since August 2025 to reduce fatal accidents, allow wading up to ankle depth, though ten people still drowned in June alone.