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Verwoesting in Zeeland

After the North Sea Flood, one thing is clear: this must never happen again. But how do we maintain control over the water?

Who Controls the Water?

In the Netherlands, we've lived in a delicate balance with water for centuries. In the Middle Ages, people were mostly responsible for their own land. Later, this became the responsibility of municipalities, but they didn't collaborate enough. Since 1798, Rijkswaterstaat has been officially safeguarding water safety in the country.

De Afsluitdijk

What Do We Do with Southwest Netherlands?

Years before the Flood, significant work had already been done on the Zuiderzee Works. The Afsluitdijk has since protected the northern provinces from flooding. But were there no plans in place for Southwest Netherlands?

Did the Delta Plan Exist Before the Flood?

Forewarned is forearmed...

Engineer Johan van Veen warned early on about the vulnerabilities of the southern coast. According to his daughter, he even had two solutions ready.

A commission, a plan, a law

The disaster finally awakened the Netherlands. Minister Jacob Algera formed a commission to devise solutions. Several experts further developed Johan van Veen's Delta Plan. Will their recommendations be officially followed?

Kaart met alle Deltawerken

From advice to action

Yes! Thanks to Jacob Algera and his commission, the Delta Act became a reality. The Delta Plan was no longer just a recommendation; it had to be implemented. Above, you can see all the Delta Works included in the plan.

Oostercheldekering

In 1986, the Oosterschelde Barrier was completed, marking the full implementation of the Delta Plan. But our work is not finished. The Delta Programme is continuously updated to ensure that the Netherlands remains safe from water in the future.

"Working towards safety, mobility and quality of life. That’s what Rijkswaterstaat is working on."

— Rijkswaterstaat's Motto
See also
Oosterscheldekering
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The Dam That Had to Be Built

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