In a startling turn of events, the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, USA, has collapsed following a collision with a cargo ship. The incident occurred as several vehicles were traversing the 2.6km-long bridge when the container ship struck one of its supports.
Officials have reported that at least seven individuals are believed to be in the water, with numerous vehicles submerged beneath the surface. A comprehensive search and rescue operation involving boats and helicopters is currently underway.
The collision, which occurred at 01:30 local time, involved the Singapore-flagged container ship, Dali. The vessel collided with a column of the 47-year-old bridge, resulting in its collapse. The ship had departed from Port Breeze terminal around 00:45, en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
According to officials, a variety of vehicles, including one resembling a tractor-trailer, plunged into the water below due to the collapse. Baltimore fire department, the US Coast Guard, and various state agencies from Maryland are spearheading the rescue efforts.
Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace confirmed that two individuals had been rescued, with one of them in critical condition and transported to a local trauma center. The challenging tide conditions and freezing temperatures around 3°C (37.4°F) near the bridge are complicating the rescue operation.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the incident as an "unthinkable tragedy," emphasizing the immediate priority of rescuing individuals trapped in the water.
Synergy Marine Group, the shipping company, disclosed that the ship had an all-Indian crew comprising 22 individuals. All crew members, including two harbor pilots, have been safely accounted for, with no reported injuries.
Maersk, the shipping giant that chartered the vessel, expressed shock over the incident and extended sympathies to those affected. The company clarified that none of its crew or personnel were onboard the vessel at the time of the collision.
The White House assured close monitoring of the situation, with senior administration officials in contact with Maryland`s governor and Baltimore`s mayor to provide necessary federal assistance. They emphasized that there is no indication of malicious intent behind the crash. Investigations into the precise cause of the incident are ongoing, with the ship owner cooperating fully with federal agencies.
