Prins Bernhardsluis Tiel, Navigation lock in Tiel, Netherlands.
The Prins Bernhardsluis Tiel consists of two parallel lock chambers that connect the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal to the Waal River. The eastern chamber is approximately 260 meters long and 24 meters wide, accommodating vessels with a maximum draft of 4 meters.
The western chamber was built in 1952 by Werkspoor Utrecht to handle growing river traffic. The eastern chamber was added in 1974 to double the facility's capacity for the increasing flow of vessels.
This lock represents Dutch water management capabilities and allows vessels to move between two major river routes. It connects people and cargo through one of Europe's busiest inland waterway networks.
Operating both chambers means vessels almost always find an available lock, even during busy periods. Visitors can watch large cargo ships pass through from nearby viewing areas and walking paths.
The two chambers use different gate systems: the western chamber operates traditional mitre gates, while the eastern chamber uses modern lifting gates. This design difference reflects how lock technology evolved over 20 years of operation.
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