Cargo ships have drastically reduced loads or halted operations, while regional power providers in Romania and Hungary were forced to shut down nuclear reactors due to restricted cooling-water supplies from the depleted river.
Local vessel operator Radovan Segrt noted the severe impact on regional tourism as the river receded 15 to 20 meters from its banks.
"The summer season is over now, as far as boat riding is concerned," said Radovan Segrt, houseboat owner.
The receding waters have also exposed historical artifacts and hazards, including World War II munitions in Budapest.
Treasure hunters have used magnetic fishing tools to retrieve historical metal objects from newly exposed riverbeds.
"Having so little water in the Danube is a blessing for this kind of activity, otherwise, it’s a curse," said Zsolt Horváth, treasure hunter.
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Authorities confirmed the Viking Ullur remains outside the main navigation channel without disrupting traffic, though its 52 crew members face an extended stay onboard while salvage operations continue.
