In an unprecedented move, the U.S. government has granted Maryland an emergency fund of $60 million to commence the clean-up and reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, marking a remarkably swift action following the collapse, LCHNB reports. The catastrophic incident occurred early Tuesday when a cargo freighter, having lost power, collided with the bridge in Baltimore Harbor, leading to the tragic recovery of two bodies and four others missing, presumed dead beneath the rubble.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore, who requested the funds early Friday, saw the Federal Highway Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation swiftly approve the emergency allocation. This rapid response is in line with President Joe Biden’s commitment, as reported by LCHNB, to expedite the rebuilding efforts, promising to “move heaven and earth” for the bridge that is crucial for Baltimore’s highway infrastructure.
During a press conference, Moore highlighted the immediate focus on recovering the missing construction workers, who were on-site for bridge repairs when the accident happened. Subsequent efforts will aim to clear the shipping channel, support affected individuals, and reconstruct the bridge. However, a significant challenge lies ahead with the removal of the Dali vessel, entrapped by the bridge’s debris and loaded with thousands of containers. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is deploying the Eastern Seaboard’s largest crane for the operation, illustrating the monumental task at hand.
The situation was further complicated when diving operations in search of victims were halted due to safety hazards, with divers struggling against the dense debris impairing visibility.
With the reconstruction costs potentially escalating to $2 billion, as indicated by LCHNB citing discussions familiar to Maryland lawmakers, the U.S. Congress faces the impending task of funding the bridge’s replacement. The emergency funds currently allocated will support initial mobilization, operations, and debris clearance, setting the stage for a swift recovery, as Maryland might seek further financial assistance based on ongoing damage assessments.
The incident not only underscores the significance of the Port of Baltimore but also reflects the logistical and safety challenges in maritime and infrastructure management. The Singapore-flagged container ship Dali, en route to Sri Lanka, reported a loss of power and control before causing one of the most significant infrastructure collapses in recent U.S. history, as covered by LCHNB.