In a tragic incident at Baltimore Harbor, a bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a cargo ship, the Singapore-flagged Dali, lost power and struck it. The impact led to the closure of one of the busiest ports on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard.
Six workers, part of a crew repairing the bridge, were missing and presumed dead. Despite efforts by dive teams, search-and-rescue operations were halted due to hazardous conditions in the waters.
The Dali, bound for Sri Lanka, collided with a support pylon of the Francis Scott Key Bridge around 1:30 a.m. A section of the bridge collapsed immediately into the icy waters of the Patapsco River, causing vehicles and people to plunge into the river. Two survivors were rescued, one hospitalized.
Officials attributed the disaster to the ship’s reported power failure before impact. The quick action to halt traffic on the bridge likely prevented further casualties. The bridge, deemed structurally sound, met safety standards prior to the incident.
The collision’s repercussions extended beyond the immediate tragedy. Closure of the port, a vital shipping lane, would significantly affect supply chains.
Major automakers like General Motors and Ford Motor anticipated minimal disruptions but acknowledged potential challenges in shipping logistics.
President Joe Biden pledged federal support for rebuilding efforts and promised a visit to the affected area. However, concerns lingered about the economic impact, with experts warning of potential bottlenecks and delays along the Eastern seaboard.
The National Transportation Safety Board initiated an investigation, with a team deployed to assess the incident. Meanwhile, the ship’s history of mechanical issues, including deficiencies noted in a Chilean inspection, raised questions about its safety record.
The disaster, reminiscent of past bridge collapses, underscored the importance of maritime safety and infrastructure maintenance. As rescue efforts transitioned to recovery, the community mourned the loss of lives and grappled with the aftermath of the tragedy.
