Baltimore's Key Bridge Demolition Scheduled with Explosives to Rescue Trapped Cargo Ship
Scheduled for Sunday, crews are set to proceed with a demolition plan involving small explosives to dislodge a section of Baltimore's Key Bridge that fell onto a cargo ship six weeks ago. Inclement weather postponed the operation, but it is now back on track.
Crews will proceed on Sunday with a plan to use small explosives to break apart a large section of the Baltimore bridge that collapsed on a cargo ship six weeks ago. This comes after a delay caused by poor weather conditions.
Officials are planning to conduct the controlled demolition around 5 p.m., as per the US Coast Guard. Originally scheduled for Saturday, the demolition was postponed due to an unfavorable weather forecast.
From top left to right, we have Miguel Luna, Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, and Dorlian Castillo Cabrera. From bottom left to right, we have Jose Mynor Lopez, Carlos Hernández, and Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes. 
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Six individuals, including a father of 3 and a budding entrepreneur, were victims of the tragic Baltimore bridge collapse. The demolition was intended to assist authorities in clearing debris to release the 213-million-pound Dali cargo ship. The ship had deviated from its course on March 26, hitting a pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to its collapse into the water below. This unfortunate event resulted in the loss of six construction workers' lives and significant damage to a crucial transportation route, posing a threat to the economy at the Port of Baltimore.
Last week, officials successfully recovered the sixth and final body, clearing the way for the plan to free the Dali. According to reports from The Baltimore Sun and CNN affiliate WBAL, if the operation goes well this weekend, the ship could be refloated and returned to the Port of Baltimore as early as this week.
In a news release last week, the Key Bridge Response Unified Command stated that the safest and quickest way to remove the bridge piece from on top of the M/V Dali is through precision cuts using small charges.
"This tool is commonly used in controlled demolition to break the span into smaller pieces. This process makes it easier to refloat the vessel and remove it from the federal channel."
Salvage crew members work on the deck of the cargo ship Dali on Friday, May 10, 2024.
Salvage crew members work on the deck of the cargo ship Dali on Friday, May 10, 2024.
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The process of demolishing the site, as shown in an infographic by the US Army and US Army Corps of Engineers, will involve multiple smoke puffs and fireworks-like sounds. Nearby communities will be informed in advance through a cellular notification by the Unified Command, which consists of state and federal authorities, the US Coast Guard, and Army Corps of Engineers.
Simultaneously, various investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the disaster and identify those responsible. The House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure is set to conduct a hearing on the catastrophe, scheduled for Wednesday. Testimonies are expected from the National Transportation Safety Board chair and officials from the Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, and the US Department of Transportation.
CNN’s Paradise Afshar, Holly Yan and Dakin Andone contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The Baltimore bridge collapse was a tragic event that resulted in the loss of six innocent lives. The upcoming controlled demolition is a crucial step in clearing debris and releasing the cargo ship that caused the accident. While it is necessary to restore transportation and minimize economic damage, it is essential to prioritize safety during the demolition process. The authorities must ensure that nearby communities are well-informed and prepared for any potential disruptions.
The ongoing investigations into the cause of the disaster must be thorough and transparent. It is imperative to identify any systemic failures or negligence that may have contributed to the tragedy. Holding those responsible accountable will not only provide justice for the victims' families but also prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure hearing is a welcome step in ensuring that lessons are learned and appropriate measures are taken to improve safety standards.
