Carlos Rodriguez
The U.S. Coast Guard has established a temporary alternative route for vessels aiding in the clearance of debris following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.
This interim measure is part of a phased strategy to restore access to the primary channel leading to the crucial port, according to officials.
Teams are engaged in the intricate task of dismantling steel and concrete remnants at the location where the bridge tragically fell into the Patapsco River. The collapse was triggered by a container ship losing power and colliding with a supporting column. Dive squads conducted surveys of bridge sections and inspected the vessel on Sunday, while workers in elevated platforms utilized torches to cut through the above-water portions of the twisted steel framework.
The temporary channel is exclusively accessible to vessels involved in the cleanup operation. Authorities suspect that four individuals perished in the incident.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore, speaking at a news briefing on Monday afternoon, outlined the immediate priorities as the recovery of the four bodies and the eventual reopening of shipping routes to the port.
He acknowledged the pressing need for action but emphasized the considerable risks posed by the chaotic wreckage of the collapsed bridge.
In a separate development, Synergy and Grace Ocean filed a petition in court on Monday to restrict their legal liabilities, a customary procedure for cases governed by U.S. maritime law. The federal court in Maryland will determine liability and the extent of financial obligations.
The petition aims to limit the companies’ liability to approximately $43.6 million. It assesses the vessel’s value at up to $90 million, with freight valued at over $1.1 million in revenue for the companies. However, it also factors in significant expenses such as repair costs estimated at a minimum of $28 million and salvage expenses of at least $19.5 million.
In addition to clearing the shipping channel to resume port operations, authorities are strategizing the reconstruction of the vital bridge, a landmark completed in 1977.
The bridge, which facilitated Interstate 695 around southeast Baltimore, stood as an emblem of the city’s industrial heritage and maritime traditions.
