Efforts underway to remove initial debris from Baltimore bridge collapse as officials consider creating a temporary water channel
Efforts are underway to clear the initial debris from the Baltimore bridge collapse, marking the beginning of a complex cleanup operation. Officials are exploring the possibility of establishing a temporary water channel to facilitate access for more vessels in the vicinity of the collapse.
Crews are currently focused on removing the initial section of the Baltimore bridge wreckage. This marks the beginning of a complex and thorough cleanup operation. The goal is to create a temporary channel that will enable more vessels to access the water near the site of the collapse, according to officials.
Authorities emphasized that clearing the channel is essential for several reasons. Not only will it facilitate the search for missing individuals, but it will also allow for the reopening of a crucial port that plays a significant role in both the local and national economies. However, it is important to note that conditions in the water are currently unsafe for divers due to submerged bridge fragments.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore described the operation as remarkably complex during a news conference on Saturday.
It has been five days since a 213-million-pound cargo vessel collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, resulting in the tragic deaths of six construction workers. Unfortunately, four of the victims are still missing, believed to be trapped underwater amidst the steel and concrete debris.
"My team and I are dedicated to keeping our focus on a top priority - bringing home the workers who are still missing. This is crucial for providing closure to their families," stated Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott.
Wreckage from the Francis Scott Key Bridge rests on the Dali cargo ship on March 29, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Wreckage from the Francis Scott Key Bridge rests on the Dali cargo ship on March 29, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
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The cargo ship, which is approximately the length of three football fields, is carrying around 4,000 tons of steel from the bridge's frame on its bow.
According to Moore, the hull of the cargo ship is damaged but still whole, and they plan to cut up and remove the northern sections of the bridge.
On Saturday, Moore mentioned that by opening a temporary restricted channel, we will be able to increase the number of vessels in the water near the collapse site.
This will allow more tugs, barges, and boats to enter the area and speed up our recovery efforts, according to the governor.
"This is not just a problem for Maryland, but for our entire nation's economy," expressed Moore on Saturday. "The economy of our country relies heavily on the port of Baltimore, and the port of Baltimore relies on the traffic of vessels."
The collapse of the bridge could have a significant economic impact, as it has stopped the movement of ships to and from the Port of Baltimore indefinitely. This has dealt a severe blow to the many dock workers who depend on the port for their livelihood.
The start of the port reopening process involves using a 160-ton crane for the first debris lift, according to Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath of the US Coast Guard. He compared it to taking the first steps in a marathon.
Gilreath expressed the importance of opening another channel to boost the local economy and facilitate traffic flow at the port of Baltimore, even if it's not deep draft. Taking advantage of this opportunity is crucial, he emphasized.
The governor mentioned that the port handles more cars and farm equipment than any other port in the country. As a result, at least 8,000 dock workers have been directly impacted by the collapse.
On Saturday, Moore announced that small businesses affected by the collapse can now apply for disaster loans of up to $2 million from the federal government.
After the initial lift, the governor emphasized the importance of understanding the adjustments made.
To reopen the port, the Coast Guard plans to clear debris from the deep draft channel, remove the ship, and then clear debris from the bridge.
"We are currently conducting diving operations to assess the possibility of cutting sections of the bridge, preparing for future lifts with cranes, and ensuring safety measures for reopening the channel," stated Gilreath on Saturday.
According to Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, ongoing cleanup activities involve isolating a portion of an underwater natural gas pipeline.
The company spokesperson mentioned that they intentionally released gas near the bridge to support salvage operations as a safety measure. Fortunately, this action did not affect customers or raise safety concerns.
When divers go back into the water, they may encounter unpredictable conditions.
The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
Diving operations for the four missing victims were halted last week. This was due to the discovery of vehicles trapped in concrete and other debris, which posed a safety risk for the divers, according to Col. Roland L. Butler.
After search efforts were stopped, remote vehicles were deployed with sonar to map the object that fell into the Patapsco River after the collapse, Butler explained on Wednesday. Drones and infrared technology were also utilized during the search.
Moore mentioned on Saturday that divers will resume their search in the water once conditions are safe.
From top left to right, Carlos Hernández, Miguel Luna and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval. From bottom left to right, Jose Mynor Lopez and Dorlian Castillo Cabrera
From top left to right, Carlos Hernández, Miguel Luna and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval. From bottom left to right, Jose Mynor Lopez and Dorlian Castillo Cabrera
Obtained by CNN
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Mark Martin from SalvOcean LLC, a marine survey and salvage company, mentioned that divers may encounter challenges when they resume the search for victims after clearing the debris during salvage operations.
"The current in Baltimore Harbor is quite fast. Martin, who spent several days submerged there, mentioned to CNN on Saturday that visibility is limited to only one or two feet ahead."
"Despite the swift current, Martin noted that it isn't strong enough to move larger pieces of debris."
"When things start to be cut up, it's important to be cautious and keep an eye on the current, direction, and speed," he advised.
Sonar is always keeping track of the ship's movement. Due to the heavy weight on the bow, Martin thinks the only movement possible is the bow sinking further into the sand.
CNN’s Michelle Watson and Sarah Dewberry contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The tragedy of the Baltimore bridge collapse has left a profound impact on the community and beyond. The loss of six construction workers is a devastating blow to their families and loved ones. The ongoing search and recovery efforts are a testament to the unwavering commitment to finding the missing victims and providing closure to their families. While the reopening of the port is crucial for the local and national economy, it is imperative that safety remains the top priority. The complex operation to clear the channel and remove debris requires meticulous planning and execution to ensure the safety of divers and other personnel involved in the recovery process. The challenges presented by the fast current and limited visibility in Baltimore Harbor underscore the need for a cautious and well-coordinated approach. The expertise of marine survey and salvage companies like SalvOcean LLC will be invaluable in navigating these challenges and ensuring the safe and efficient resumption of search efforts.
