Warning of dangerous mudflat hikes in the Oker: heavy metals are lurking!

Warning of dangerous mudflat hikes in the Oker: heavy metals are lurking!

In Braunschweig, residents are currently being surprised by an unusual phenomenon on the Oker riverbed. Due to the work on the Wenden weir and Petri weir, the Oker is dry in places, making the mud underneath visible. This situation inspired some creative minds to bring up a mudflat hike in the Oker River.

But the city of Braunschweig warns urgently against such undertakings. And for good reason: the Oker mud is not only innocent and inviting, but also contains dangerous heavy metals. After over 1000 years of mining in the Harz, lead, cadmium, arsenic and copper in particular have accumulated in the soil, as braunschweig.de describes. Rainwater and mixed urban runoff contribute to poor water quality and influence the composition of the sludge.

Health risks from heavy metals

The city has also pointed out that swimming in the Oker can also be dangerous because movements in the mud can stir up pollutants. These heavy metals not only pollute the soil, but also endanger the health of people - especially pregnant women, children and the elderly. The risks range from acute health problems to long-term damage caused by bioaccumulation in the food chain, as boquwater.com notes.

The city therefore appeals to citizens: “Some ideas are better left in the drawers.” The sensitive issue of heavy metal pollution in riverside areas is taken seriously because there are already committee plans based on research into this problem. The delineation of such contaminated areas was carried out through comprehensive mapping and the merging of various data sets in order to precisely represent the risk.

Protective measures and education

But what exactly can be done to improve the situation? Protecting our waters requires a package of measures. Remediation strategies are required that range from physical to chemical to biological approaches. This includes not only the dredging of contaminated sediments, but also the use of plants that can absorb heavy metals - a process known as phytoremediation.

The city of Braunschweig and local institutions are working to launch education and awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of heavy metal pollution. Information about safer recreational activities can help minimize potential risks and motivate residents to actively participate in improving water quality.

At a time when health and safety should be the priority, the message to the population remains clear: avoid risky activities in the Oker Riverbed and work to protect our special natural area.