Nearly two months after the catastrophic collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, twenty-one crew members remain trapped aboard the cargo ship Dali. The bridge’s collapse not only caused tragic fatalities but also left the vessel stranded in Maryland’s Patapsco River. Authorities conducted a controlled explosion to facilitate the ship’s liberation, hopeful that this marks a turning point in the prolonged ordeal that has kept the crew isolated and cut off from the world.
Ongoing Challenges for the Crew
The crew, comprising 20 Indians and one Sri Lankan national, finds themselves in a precarious situation due to bureaucratic hurdles such as visa restrictions and the absence of necessary shore passes. Their plight is compounded by ongoing investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FBI, which restrict their ability to leave the ship. Despite the dangerous conditions during the controlled demolition, the crew was required to remain below deck, with emergency fire crews on standby, highlighting the severe safety risks they continue to face.
Controlled Demolition Efforts
On the day of the controlled demolition, small explosive charges were used strategically to sever the portion of the bridge resting on the ship’s bow. This operation was critical in beginning the process of disentangling the ship from the wreckage, an essential step towards ultimately freeing the crew and the vessel. US Coast Guard Admiral Shannon Gilreath emphasized the safety measures in place, ensuring that the crew would be protected during the blasts.
Uncertain Timeline for Return
As the crew endures their extended stay aboard the Dali, it remains uncertain when they will be able to return to their homes. The combination of legal, logistical, and safety issues presents a complex challenge to resolving their predicament swiftly. The international nature of the crew adds another layer of complexity to the coordination efforts required for their repatriation.
Also learn about Controlled Explosions Planned to Free Cargo Ship from Collapsed Baltimore Bridge.
