In the early hours of March 26, a collision shook Baltimore, Maryland, as the container ship ‘Dali’ struck a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. This impactful incident resulted in significant structural damage, causing the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. However, the swift action of the 22 Indian-origin crew members aboard the vessel prevented further catastrophe. Their quick ‘mayday‘ call enabled authorities to promptly halt traffic on the bridge, averting potential disaster.
Acknowledgment of Heroic Actions
The decisive response of the crew garnered praise from President Joe Biden, who commended their alertness during a White House briefing. He lauded their vigilance in alerting the Maryland Department of Transportation, ensuring the timely closure of the bridge and undoubtedly preventing loss of life.
Casualties and Ongoing Efforts
While all 22 crew members, including the two pilots, were reported safe, the collision resulted in tragic casualties among a nighttime construction crew. Six individuals are currently missing and presumed deceased, prompting ongoing search and recovery efforts. Among the missing are individuals from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, including Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova, a Honduran citizen.
Investigation and Impact Assessment
Maryland Governor Wes Moore confirmed that the container ship experienced a power outage before the collision. Both federal and state authorities are conducting investigations, with the National Transportation Safety Board leading the effort. The indefinite suspension of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has disrupted local and international shipping operations.
Rebuilding and Restoration
Baltimore’s port, a vital economic hub, faces challenges following the bridge collapse. President Biden has called for government funding to expedite the rebuilding process and restore normalcy to port operations. The vessel ‘Dali,’ owned by Grace Ocean Private, was route from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, carrying 4,679 TEU of cargo. All 22 crew members, of Indian nationality, displayed exemplary alertness and saved lives amidst adversity.
