Flood protection for Bern districts along the Aare
The districts along the River Aare are currently not adequately protected against flooding. The floods of 1999 and 2005 caused major damage. Climate studies show that extreme precipitation will occur more frequently as a result of global warming, which also increases the risk of flooding in Bern.
Comprehensive structural measures extending around six kilometres are planned to effectively protect the densely populated area along the River Aare from flooding. These include protective walls, terrain modelling, precautions against obstructions (blockage by driftwood) and measures against rising groundwater. At the same time, the embankment structures – some of which are outdated – will be renovated, supply pipes replaced and the residential drainage system adapted. In addition, environmental upgrades are planned, for example at the Gaswerkareal and in the Englische Anlagen park opposite the Matte.
Construction work will begin in September 2025 and, according to current plans, will take around eight years.
Danger zone for water activities – 15 September 2025 to end of May 2026
Swimming and other water activities within the construction area are life-threatening. For safety reasons, accessing the water along the construction sites (marked in red) is forbidden.
Disclaimer
Using the affected areas of water is at your own risk. The principals accept no liability whatsoever for accidents, damage or other consequences resulting from accessing the water or disregarding the warning notices.
