The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has collapsed into the Patapsco River after being struck by a Singapore-registered cargo ship, the Dali, resulting in presumed deaths and significant disruptions.
A cargo ship named the Dali, registered in Singapore, collided with a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. The incident, which took place in the early hours of the morning, has led to the presumed death of six construction workers who were working on the bridge at the time. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore confirmed that the Dali had passed safety inspections in 2023, despite the catastrophic outcome of the event.
Efforts by the ship’s pilot to slow down after losing power and attempts to warn the bridge of the impending collision were unsuccessful. The collapse not only resulted in the tragic loss of life but also caused significant disruptions, with five vehicles falling into the water and substantial damage to the bridge, a vital transportation link for the region.
The impact of the tragedy is far-reaching, affecting commuter traffic and shipping operations at the Port of Baltimore. Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing, with the National Transportation Safety Board announcing an inquiry into the bridge collapse. Engineering experts are evaluating the structural failures that led to the disaster, noting that modern bridges are designed with protective measures against such collisions. However, the force exerted by the Dali may have surpassed these design limits, leading to the swift collapse of the structure.
The incident has reignited discussions about the risks posed by foreign-flagged ships and the necessity for highly trained, state-licensed pilots to navigate local waterways. Additionally, it has brought attention to the figure of Francis Scott Key, after whom the bridge was named, sparking debate over his legacy as a slave owner and his views on slavery.
As the Baltimore community mourns the loss and the aftermath of this heartbreaking event unfolds, the focus is on recovery efforts and investigating the structural and procedural lapses to prevent future tragedies.
