Refurbishment of the drainage system at the Sorpe Dam

This summer, the Ruhrverband is carrying out refurbishment work on the slope trench of the Sorpe Dam’s bypass system. The work is necessary to ensure the long-term functionality of the facility. For the duration of the refurbishment, the feeder system will be taken out of service from Monday 20 July 2026 until, it is expected, the end of October 2026. 

During this period, the outflows from the Röhr, the Bönkhauserbach and the Settmecke will not be channelled to the Sorpe Dam as usual. Instead, the water will remain entirely within the natural watercourses. 

In day-to-day operations, this generally has no noticeable impact. However, during heavy rainfall or flood events, the three watercourses may carry higher volumes of water than during the regular operation of the diversion system. 

The intake structures are used to divert water to the Sorpe Reservoir and form part of the Ruhrverband’s water management system. However, they do not serve a flood protection function. Nevertheless, as a precautionary measure, the Ruhrverband is providing information about the temporary changes to discharge conditions and the possible effects in the event of heavy rain or flooding. Residents living along the Röhr, the Bönkhauserbach and the Settmecke downstream of the respective intake structures may be particularly affected by the increased discharges.

In addition to the press release, residents, businesses and companies directly affected will be informed about the renovation work and its potential impacts via leaflets. The Ruhrverband recommends closely monitoring the local flood situation when heavy rainfall is forecast and, if necessary, securing loose objects or materials near the water as a precautionary measure. 

By renovating the Hanggraben, the Ruhrverband is investing in the long-term operational safety of the Sorpetalsperre’s diversion system. According to current plans, the works are due to be completed by the end of October 2026. The Ruhrverband asks for your understanding regarding the unavoidable disruption.