Water boards warned for shifting inland dikes during drought

THE HAGUE – Water control boards across the country, called waterschappen, have been urged to inspect inland dikes, especially the ones sitting on peaty soil. The continued drought could undermine their ability to withstand pressure and perhaps shift their base, as had happened in 2003, when two such dikes - one in Rotterdam and one in nearby Wilnis - collapsed and dozens of others throughout the country became unstable or changed shape.