The refloating of the cargo ship Dali early Monday morning, almost two months after its catastrophic collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, represents a significant moment for the Port of Baltimore.
The Dali, a behemoth stretching nearly 1,000 feet and weighing over 100,000 tons, was successfully maneuvered approximately two and a half miles to the Seagirt Marine Terminal with the aid of five tugboats. This operation, planned to coincide with high tide, marked the culmination of intensive salvage efforts, including controlled explosions to clear the massive bridge debris ensnaring the vessel.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed his satisfaction with the progress, stating, “I’m proud that we’re on track that by the end of May we’ll have that federal channel reopened,” on NBC’s Meet the Press. The reopening is crucial, as the port supports the sugar and automotive industries and serves as a major thoroughfare for daily commuters.
The crash not only claimed the lives of six bridge maintenance workers but also left Dali’s 21-member crew stranded onboard under challenging conditions. The crew, confined since the incident, has faced significant hardships, including expired visas and the confiscation of their personal communication devices by the FBI amid ongoing investigations.
Barbara Shipley, a representative for the International Transport Workers’ Federation, voiced concern for the crew’s welfare: “It’s important to get these gentlemen back home to their families. They’ve been instrumental in maintaining the ship’s functioning throughout this ordeal.”
