Salvage crews have begun the process of removing containers from the deck of the cargo ship that crashed into and collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. This is a crucial step towards fully reopening one of the nation’s main shipping lanes. The removal of the containers from the deck of the Dali will continue throughout the week, weather permitting. Crews are also working on removing sections of the bridge that lie across the ship’s bow to eventually allow the vessel to move. So far, 32 vessels have passed through temporary channels on either side of the wreckage.
The Unified Command is focused on removing enough debris to open the channel to larger commercial traffic, according to U.S. Coast Guard Capt. David O’Connell. The Dali has been trapped under mangled steel in the Patapsco River since it collided with the bridge on March 26, resulting in the deaths of six workers. President Joe Biden recently conducted a helicopter tour of the site, viewing the mass of construction and salvage equipment in place. He also met with the families of the deceased workers during his visit.
Among the victims were eight workers, immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, who were filling potholes on the bridge when it was struck and collapsed. Two individuals were rescued, while the bodies of three others were recovered in the following days. The search for the remaining victims is ongoing. Officials have implemented a temporary alternate channel for vessels involved in the debris clearing process. The Army Corps of Engineers is aiming to open a limited-access channel for barge container ships and select vessels transporting cars and farm equipment by the end of April. Full capacity at Baltimore’s port is expected to be restored by May 31.
To aid in the salvage operation, more than 50 salvage divers and 12 cranes are currently on-site. They are working to cut out sections of the bridge and remove them from the waterway. The overall goal is to clear the wreckage and open up the channel for commercial traffic as quickly as possible. The Unified Command is coordinating efforts to ensure the safe and efficient removal of debris and the eventual reopening of the shipping lane. The incident has highlighted the importance of thorough safety protocols and regulations in maritime transportation to prevent future accidents and protect workers.
