20th May 2024

Report : Baltimore Frees Cargo Ship, But Indian Crew Still Stranded.

Baltimore, MD (May 20, 2024):** In a significant development for the Port of Baltimore, the cargo ship responsible for the tragic bridge collapse in March is set to be moved today, May 20th. The “Dali,” a Singapore-flagged nearly 1,000-foot vessel, will be towed to a nearby marine terminal after being stuck for almost two months. The incident, which occurred on March 26th, claimed the lives of six construction workers and severely disrupted operations at one of America’s busiest ports.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the Dali experienced multiple power outages before colliding with a support column of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The impact caused a section of the bridge to crumble, sending workers plummeting into the Patapsco River below.

The complex salvage operation to free the Dali involved divers inspecting the hull for obstructions and demolition experts using controlled explosives to remove parts of the collapsed bridge that were lodged in the ship. The delicate process has paved the way for the vessel’s departure today at high tide, estimated to be around 5:24 am. Tugboats will then transport the Dali at a slow pace of about one mile per hour to its designated terminal, with the journey expected to take roughly three hours.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed optimism about the development. “We’re proud that we’re on track,” he told NBC News on Sunday. “By the end of May, we’ll have that federal channel reopened.” The reopening of the waterway is crucial for the economic well-being of Baltimore. The port is a major hub for the auto industry, handling nearly 850,000 vehicles last year, more than any other U.S. port. The disruption caused by the bridge collapse has had a significant impact on car imports and exports.

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However, the move of the Dali only marks the beginning of a longer process. The NTSB investigation into the accident continues, with the 21-member crew, including 20 Indian nationals and one Sri Lankan, still on board. While authorities have interviewed the crew and collected relevant data, visa restrictions and the ongoing probe prevent them from leaving the ship. This has caused hardship for the crew, who have been confined to the vessel for weeks with limited communication with their families back home.

The Baltimore Bridge collapse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations in the maritime industry. The NTSB’s investigation is expected to shed light on the cause of the accident and recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The economic impact of the bridge closure is also significant, highlighting the need for swift and efficient response mechanisms in such situations. The fate of the Indian crew, caught in the middle of this ordeal, remains a point of concern, with their ability to return home hinging on the completion of the investigation.

Conclusion

The removal of the Dali from the crash site signifies a step forward for the Port of Baltimore. However, the road to normalcy is long. The investigation into the bridge collapse continues, with the cause of the accident yet to be determined. The economic impact is substantial, and the crew’s situation aboard the Dali raises questions about communication and support for those caught in such unforeseen circumstances. As the investigation progresses and the port works towards full functionality, lessons learned from this incident will be crucial in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the maritime industry.

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