Traffic in Brandenburg: Extraordinary highway salt consumption final winter | EUROtoday

In the expired, very long time icy Winter More than 50,000 tons of salt have been unfold in Brandenburg. “Compared to the average consumption of around 25,000 tons per year over the past four winters, salt consumption in the 2025/2026 season was more than twice as high,” mentioned the state highway authority. In the meantime, salt needed to be reordered and typically prioritized as wanted.

According to the state firm, nearly 20,000 tons of highway salt have been sufficient within the winter of 2024/2025. “Despite the winter weather at the beginning of 2026, the requirements for winter service were met and road safety was largely guaranteed,” it mentioned.

Frost brought about elevated highway injury and potholes

The state highway division Brandenburg is accountable for winter service on federal and state roads in addition to on cycle paths. Approximately as a lot salt is used per sq. meter for sprinkling as is generally used for a boiled egg. Salt is taken into account a very efficient spreading agent. However, environmentalists warn in opposition to its use. According to the environmental group BUND, salt harms the soil, crops, animals and water.

According to the state firm, the frequent freeze-thaw cycles “increasingly led to the formation of road damage and potholes.” The injury is recorded and documented weekly by the state highway upkeep division. The state firm mentioned that pace limits may very well be imposed in affected sections of the route, amongst different issues, with a view to guarantee visitors security.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:260415-930-946745/1