Salvage Crews Begin Removing Containers from Cargo Ship Wreck in Baltimore

Salvage Operations Progressing After Cargo Ship Collision in Baltimore

BALTIMORE (AP) — Salvage crews have commenced the removal of 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 the complete reopening of one of the nation’s primary shipping lanes.

Continued Removal Efforts

The ongoing efforts to remove the containers from the deck of the Dali will proceed throughout this week, subject to weather conditions, as indicated by a statement from the Key Bridge Response Unified Command. Additionally, crews are making progress in the removal of sections of the bridge that obstruct the ship's bow, with the intention of eventually allowing its movement, the statement further noted.

Temporary Channels and Unified Command Progress

Following the incident, a total of 32 vessels have navigated through temporary channels on either side of the wreckage, as confirmed by officials. U.S. Coast Guard Capt. David O’Connell, part of the Unified Command, emphasized, "The Unified Command is concurrently progressing on its main lines of effort to remove enough debris to open the channel to larger commercial traffic."

Trapped Cargo Ship and President's Visit

The Dali has been ensnared under mangled steel in the Patapsco River since the collision with the bridge on March 26, resulting in the tragic loss of six workers. President Joe Biden conducted a helicopter tour of the distorted metal remains and the extensive collection of construction and salvage equipment dedicated to clearing the wreckage on Friday. Furthermore, the president had a meeting exceeding an hour with the bereaved families.

Lost Lives and Search Efforts

Eight workers, hailing from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, were engaged in repairing potholes on the bridge when the collision and subsequent collapse occurred during the late hours of the night. While two individuals were rescued, the bodies of three others were discovered in the days following the incident, and the search for the remaining victims persists.

Restoration and Salvage Divers

Authorities have established a temporary alternate channel for vessels involved in debris clearance. The Army Corps of Engineers aims to inaugurate a limited-access channel for barge container ships and selected vehicles transporting cars and agricultural equipment by the conclusion of April, with the objective of reinstating regular capacity to Baltimore’s port by May 31, according to the White House. More than 50 salvage divers and 12 cranes are actively contributing to cut out sections of the bridge and subsequently eliminate them from the critical waterway.