Recovery of Cargo Ship Dali in Port of Baltimore
Overview
In a significant development, the cargo ship Dali, which caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge in Baltimore, has been successfully refloated after nearly two months of obstructing transportation in the Port of Baltimore. The recovery teams have made progress in moving the massive cargo tanker to a maritime terminal, marking a crucial step towards reopening the shipping canal.
Recovery Operation
- The Singapore-flagged ship lost power on March 26, leading to the collision with a support column of the bridge, resulting in its collapse into the Patapsco River.
- The US Army Corps of Engineers, along with tugboats, successfully made the container ship buoyant and moved it to a local marine terminal.
- Demolition experts used explosives to clear parts of the collapsed bridge to free the Dali, with its 21-man crew still onboard.
- Divers will inspect the ship for obstructions, followed by the removal of water used as ballast before releasing anchors and mooring lines.
Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) launched a criminal probe into the incident, with agents boarding the Dali for investigation. Preliminary reports indicated multiple electrical power losses before the collision. The National Transportation Safety Board is also investigating the incident, revealing two electricity blackouts prior to the disaster and confirming crew sobriety.
Outlook
Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed confidence in reopening the federal channel by the end of May, following the successful recovery and investigative efforts.
