A chaotic scene unfolded near the city of Baltimore as a containership collided with a bridge, leaving it in ruins and prompting a massive search and rescue operation. The vessel, identified as the Dali, reportedly lost control, leading to the collision.
The incident occurred when the ship struck a pillar on the southern side of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing substantial damage. Numerous vehicles plunged into the water below, triggering a large-scale search effort. Fortunately, two individuals were rescued from the water amidst the chaos.
Authorities were alerted to the impending collision by the ship’s crew, who warned that they were unable to prevent the accident due to the vessel’s loss of control. Prompt action by road authorities prevented vehicles from accessing the bridge, potentially averting further casualties. Governor Wes Moore of Maryland commended these actions, hailing the road officials as heroes for their role in saving lives.
Reports have emerged suggesting that the Dali had a prior collision incident in 2016, where it collided with a quay in Antwerp. Documents obtained by ABC News indicate that the vessel had experienced loss of control before Tuesday’s collision, raising concerns about its operational safety.
The aftermath of the collision has rendered the bustling port of Baltimore inaccessible to ships. Situated approximately 5 kilometers beyond the collapsed bridge, the port serves as a vital link between the Patapsco River, Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Dali had departed from the port of Baltimore en route to Sri Lanka for a voyage spanning 27 days. However, the closure of the bridge and subsequent port restrictions have halted the progress of an estimated thirty vessels bound for Baltimore, causing significant disruptions to maritime operations.
Baltimore’s port, one of the oldest and largest in the United States, serves as a crucial hub for international trade and commerce, handling a diverse range of cargo shipments. The impact of the bridge collapse and port closure underscores the vulnerability of maritime infrastructure and the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent such incidents.
This collision serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in maritime transportation and the need for constant vigilance to ensure the safety of both vessels and surrounding infrastructure.
Governor Wes Moore of Maryland has declared a state of emergency in the state. Maryland is working to quickly deploy federal resources, Moore reports.
He also states that his office is in close contact with the relevant authorities, including Mayor Brandon Scott of Baltimore and US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.
The governor thanks everyone involved in the rescue efforts. “We are grateful for the courageous men and women working to rescue those involved and pray for the safety of everyone.”
Source:NU
