US Baltimore bridge collapse: The container ship that had earlier crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday was manned by a crew of 22 Indians, informed the charter management entity. the company further said that all were safe and secure.
The company, Synergy Marine Group released a statement where they informed about the details of the ship. It said, "Owners and managers of the Singapore-flagged container ship “DALI” (IMO 9697428) report that the vessel collided with one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Baltimore whilst under pilotage with two pilots onboard, at approximately 01 30 local time on 26th March."
"All crew members, including the two pilots have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries. There has also been no pollution. Whilst the exact cause of the incident is yet to be determined, the ‘DALI’ has now mobilised its Qualified Individual Incident response service. The US Coast Guard and local officials have been notified, and the owners and managers are fully cooperating with Federal and State government agencies under an approved plan," the statement further said.
US President Biden says, 'Eight people unaccounted for'
US President Joe Biden held a press conference where he answered queries about the incident. Addressing the conference he said, "Officials at the scene estimate eight people were unaccounted for. That number might change. Two have been rescued, one without injury and one in critical condition, and the search and rescue operation is continuing for all those remaining as we speak. Everything so far indicates that this was a terrible accident."
He further said, "At this time, we have no other indication, no other reason to believe there's any intentional act here. Our prayers are with everyone involved in this terrible accident and all the families, especially those waiting for the news of their loved ones right now. I know every minute in that circumstance feels like a lifetime. We're incredibly grateful for the brave rescuers who immediately rushed to the scene and to the people of Baltimore."
"We're going to stay with you as long as it takes. The search and rescue operation is our top priority. Ship traffic in the port of Baltimore has been suspended until further notice and we'll need to clear that channel before the ship traffic can resume. It's my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge. The people of Baltimore can count on us," he added.
Earlier, the Singapore-flagged 'Dali' ship smashed into one of the pillars of the bridge that stood on the Patapsco River. Meanwhile, Maryland’s governor, Wes Moore declared a state of emergency after the collapse of the bridge. “I have declared a State of Emergency here in Maryland and we are working with an interagency team to quickly deploy federal resources from the Biden Administration,” Moore, said in a statement posted to X.
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