Salvage crews have commenced the process of removing containers from the deck of the cargo ship that collided with and caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. This marks a significant step towards fully reopening one of the nation's crucial shipping lanes.
According to a statement from the Key Bridge Response Unified Command, the removal of containers from the Dali's deck will continue throughout the week, weather permitting. Crews are also working on removing sections of the bridge that obstruct the ship's movement.
Officials reported that a total of 32 vessels have navigated through temporary channels on either side of the wreckage. U.S. Coast Guard Capt. David O’Connell stated that efforts are underway to clear enough debris to open the channel for larger commercial traffic.
The Dali has been lodged under twisted steel in the Patapsco River since the collision on March 26, which tragically claimed the lives of six workers.
President Joe Biden conducted a helicopter tour of the site on Friday, observing the extensive salvage and construction operations. He also met with the families of the deceased workers during his visit.
Eight workers, hailing from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, were on the bridge performing maintenance work when the incident occurred. While two individuals were rescued, the bodies of three workers were recovered in the following days, with the search ongoing for the remaining victims.
Authorities have established a temporary alternate channel for vessels involved in the debris clearing efforts. The Army Corps of Engineers aims to open a limited-access channel for barge container ships and select vessels transporting cars and farm equipment by the end of April. The White House has set a target to restore normal port capacity in Baltimore by May 31.
Over 50 salvage divers and 12 cranes are currently on-site to assist in cutting out sections of the bridge and removing them from the critical waterway.
