Slipping between Amsterdam and Zaandam, Zijkanaal H whispers tales of a watery past. Zijkanaal H connects the Barndegat with the Noordzeekanaal. It was opened in 1876, alongside the Noordzeekanaal itself. This vital waterway, the eighth branch canal from IJmuiden, has witnessed more than its share of drama. Imagine the scene in 1960. A breach in the Zijkanaal H dike sent water surging into the Amsterdam neighborhood of Tuindorp Oostzaan. Residents were forced to flee their homes as the waters rose. Today, Zijkanaal H flows peacefully between the Achtersluispolder and the Noorder IJpolder. The Noorder IJplas, a large excavated lake, rests within the Noorder IJpolder. Along the western bank of Zijkanaal H runs, appropriately enough, the Zijkanaal H-weg. Before the transformation brought about by the Coentunnel and the expansion of Tuindorp Oostzaan, the area surrounding Zijkanaal H held a different charm. It was a quieter place. Few residents ventured to the canal, accessible mainly via a long walk or bike ride along Oostzanerdijk. The path along Zijkanaal H offered a glimpse into a simpler time. Houseboats and old ships dotted the Barndegat. Further down the path stood a pumping station. This pumping station became infamous in 1960. It was near the spot where the dike failed, leading to the flood. The path ended at the bend where Zijkanaal H meets the Noordzeekanaal, a popular summer swimming spot with views of passing ships.
Zijkanaal H
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