USA (Washington Insider Magazine)— US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has cautioned that the ongoing cleanup and debris removal efforts following the collapse of a bridge in Baltimore will be an extensive process. In an interview with CBS, Buttigieg emphasized the challenges involved in ensuring the safe dismantling of the structure, which collapsed after a cargo ship collided with one of its pillars.
Teams with specialist equipment have initiated efforts to clear debris from the damaged bridge, which collapsed on Tuesday during the crash. The largest crane on the east coast of the United States is helping to clear the wreckage. Buttigieg emphasized the importance of ensuring safety during the dismantling process to avoid further disruptions in maritime traffic.
Cargo Ship Stranded Amidst Debris
The cargo ship involved in the collision, named Dalí, remains stranded amidst approximately 4,000 tons of debris and metal fragments. Despite sustaining damage to some containers, most of the ship’s cargo remains intact, authorities report. Governor Wes Moore of Maryland described the ship, nearly the size of the Eiffel Tower, as trapped inside the canal beneath the Key Bridge.
Search and Recovery Efforts Continue
According to Elcomercio, Efforts to recover the bodies of the workers who presumably died in the accident are continuing. However, the collapse site remains unsafe for divers, which is hampering search efforts. Governor Moore emphasized the importance of determining the causes of the accident and holding those responsible accountable.
Economic Impact and Relief Measures
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has had significant economic repercussions, blocking access to the port of Baltimore, a crucial hub for maritime trade. To mitigate the impact on small businesses affected by the incident, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will launch a low-interest loan program in several states.
As recovery efforts continue, officials are dedicated to safeguarding the safety of everyone involved in the operation while investigating the cause of the bridge collapse. The incident highlights the need of infrastructure upkeep and safety precautions in averting similar catastrophes in the future.
