Last year, 710,909 cubic metres(m3) of sand was added to the beaches of Knokke and Coq, the Maritime and Coastal Services Agency (MDK) announced on Wednesday.
The resanding of the beaches aims to enhance the protection of the Belgian coastline against severe storms. In Knokke, 500,000 cubic metres of sand were spread in 2023 as part of an initiative to safeguard the coast until at least 2050. Some infrastructure, such as storm barriers, has a longer lifespan.
Furthermore, 23,700 square metres of marram grasses were planted in various areas. These grasses halt wind-blown sand, creating dunes, which form an effective natural barrier.
In 2023, the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre (MRCC) received approximately 350 calls for sea rescue operations, primarily during July and August. The centre also serviced over 55,800 vessels.
MDK ferries at Nieuwpoort, Ostend, Antwerp, Ghent, Basel, and Kruibeke carried 3.6 million passengers last year.
On the Scheldt and in the port of Antwerp, the 'Waterbus' transported 751,351 people.
