Live Update: (As of March 26, 2024, 11:26 PM IST)
The situation in Baltimore remains critical following the early morning collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. A massive cargo ship, the Dali, struck a support pillar around 1:27 AM, sending a significant portion of the bridge plummeting into the Patapsco River.
Search and Rescue Ongoing:
Emergency responders are working tirelessly in a desperate search for survivors. The cold waters of the river and the darkness at the time of the collapse pose significant challenges. Officials have confirmed at least seven people missing, with several vehicles believed to be submerged.
Cause of the Incident Under Investigation:
The cause of the accident remains under investigation. While authorities haven’t ruled out any possibilities, Governor Wes Moore has stated it appears to be accidental and not an act of terrorism. The Dali, a Singapore-registered vessel, did not sustain significant damage and remains afloat. Investigators are looking into a reported power outage and smoke billowing from the ship’s chimney just before the crash.
City in Shock, Major Port Disrupted:
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital artery connecting major highways and facilitating trade, has sent shockwaves through Baltimore. Governor Moore declared a state of emergency, and the impact on the city’s infrastructure and economy is expected to be severe. The Port of Baltimore, one of the busiest in the nation, faces significant disruption as officials scramble to establish alternative routes.
Baltimore Bridge Collapse: A Timeline of Events
- 1:23 AM: Reports of a power outage aboard the cargo ship Dali.
- 1:25 AM: Smoke observed emanating from the Dali’s chimney.
- 1:27 AM: The Dali collides with a support pillar of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
- 1:28 AM: Security footage captures the bridge collapsing into the Patapsco River.
- 1:30 AM: Emergency responders arrive at the scene and initiate search and rescue operations.
- (Current Time): Search and rescue efforts continue. Officials confirm at least seven people missing.
Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Impact and Response
1. Search and Rescue:
Emergency responders face harsh conditions in their search for survivors. Coast Guard, fire departments, and dive teams are deployed in a race against time.
2. Casualties:
The full extent of casualties remains unknown, but officials fear a significant loss of life.
3. Infrastructure Damage:
The collapse of the bridge has caused severe damage to a critical piece of Baltimore’s infrastructure. The impact on traffic flow and transportation is expected to be long-lasting.
4. Economic Impact:
The Port of Baltimore faces immense disruption, potentially impacting trade and causing economic hardship.
5. City Response:
Governor Moore declared a state of emergency, and city officials are working to establish alternative routes and manage the crisis.
Stay Informed – Live Updates
This page will be continuously updated with the latest information on the Baltimore Bridge collapse. We will provide details on the search and rescue efforts, casualty reports, and the city’s response to this devastating event.
