Challenging Situation for Crew Members
The crew, consisting mostly of Indians and one Sri Lankan, have been stranded onboard a ship since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of six construction workers, has left the 21 crew members facing a difficult situation.
Long Duration of Stay
Reports indicate that the crew has been stuck on the ship for 55 days since the disaster occurred on March 26. Despite efforts to address the aftermath of the bridge collapse, the crew remains onboard, unable to leave.
Difficult Conditions and Challenges
Following the collision, the crew faced challenges such as having their phones confiscated by FBI agents, participating in controlled explosions to remove debris from the ship, and witnessing the tragic loss of life. Gwee Guo Duan from the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union described the situation as tough for the seafarers.
Legal and Visa Issues
Due to US maritime regulations, the crew members are required to stay onboard to ensure operational readiness. Additionally, their US visas have expired, preventing them from leaving the ship.
Support and Services
The crew members have been provided with temporary phones and access to mental health services. Despite concerns about potential liability for the incident, the unions representing the crew are offering support and assistance during this challenging time.
Efforts to Address Distress
Port chaplain Reverend Messick expressed alarm over the seizure of the crew’s cellphones by the FBI and highlighted the importance of providing support to alleviate their distress. While temporary phones have been provided, the crew is unable to access their original SIM cards and data.