A preliminary report by federal investigators has revealed that the container ship involved in the Baltimore bridge collapse suffered two power blackouts before the tragic incident. The Singapore-flagged Dali also encountered power loss during maintenance on the previous day, although the impact of these incidents is still under investigation.
The National Transportation Safety Board’s report sheds light on the events leading up to the disaster, which claimed the lives of six construction workers and disrupted operations at the Port of Baltimore, a crucial hub in the United States.
According to the report’s timeline, the Dali experienced an electrical failure just 0.6 miles from the bridge, leading to a loss of propulsion and steering. Despite a brief restoration of power, the ship encountered another blackout when it was only 0.2 miles away from the bridge. Emergency measures, including using an emergency generator for steering, were attempted but were not sufficient to prevent the collision.
The report also highlighted earlier blackouts experienced by the ship during maintenance in port, citing issues with the generator’s exhaust gas stack and fuel pressure.
Regarding the crew, the report mentioned that they were tested for drugs and alcohol multiple times, both before and after the incident, with no indications of impairment found.
In response to the collapse, the FBI initiated a criminal investigation targeting the ship, with federal authorities promising swift action and support for rebuilding efforts. President Joe Biden has pledged federal funds for reconstruction, aiming to open a new shipping channel by the end of May.
Efforts to free the Dali from beneath the wreckage involved demolishing part of the bridge on Monday, highlighting the urgency and complexity of the aftermath of the incident.
Sources By Agencies
